Developing El Niño Reaches Record Strength, Scientists Warn

A developing El Niño event has reached record-breaking levels in parts of the Pacific, raising concerns about worsening extreme weather in the months ahead.

Sea-surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific have climbed to exceptionally high levels, with scientists closely monitoring the rapid development of the climate pattern.

El Niño can disrupt normal weather patterns globally, increasing the risk of drought, heatwaves, wildfires and flooding in different parts of the world.

The phenomenon is expected to strengthen further before reaching its projected peak, meaning its effects could become more pronounced in the coming months.

Pacific Island countries, including Fiji, are being urged to remain alert as changing rainfall patterns and extreme weather could affect water supplies, agriculture, food security and communities.

Scientists and weather agencies will continue monitoring the Pacific as the El Niño event develops.