A rare and powerful weather pattern, dubbed 'Godzilla' El Niño, is forming in the Pacific Ocean, predicted to drive global temperatures to record highs later this year and into 2027. Scientists warn this El Niño could be the strongest in modern history, potentially supercharged by a positive Indian Ocean Dipole, leading to unprecedented extreme weather events.
Global Impacts Expected
The phenomenon is expected to cause widespread impacts globally, including droughts in Australia and Indonesia, increased storm risks and heavy rainfall in North America, and wetter conditions in parts of South America. Ocean temperature anomalies in the central Pacific have already crossed thresholds indicating the onset of El Niño conditions, with some forecasts suggesting temperatures could rise significantly.
Timeline and UK Effects
The effects of El Niño typically peak towards the end of the year and conclude around February, with studies also indicating an increased likelihood of colder winters in the UK. In full, this rare weather pattern could make next year the hottest on record.
