Something coming: What scientists know about a potential ‘super’ El Nino
Scientists are observing the development of a potentially 'super' El Nino in the Pacific Ocean, with significant implications for global temperatures. The event could peak around December, but its strength depends on unpredictable atmospheric conditions. While forecasts suggest a high likelihood of El Nino formation, the exact impacts remain uncertain due to the complexities of climate interactions.
- ▪The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) estimates an 80 percent chance of El Nino developing by July.
- ▪Sea temperatures in key El Nino zones are rapidly rising, with predictions of surges of 2.5 degrees Celsius or more above average later in 2026.
- ▪El Nino events have historically led to record-high global temperatures, with the potential for 2027 to see new warmth records if a strong event occurs.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Something coming: What scientists know about a potential ‘super’ El NinoSign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inboxEl Nino tends to peak around December but ocean heat releases slowly and can drive up global temperatures the following years.PHOTO: AFPPublished May 22, 2026, 11:15 AMUpdated May 22, 2026, 11:15 AMPARIS – Forecasters say a potentially “super” El Nino is rapidly taking shape in the Pacific – but whether it evolves into a history-making event could hinge on fickle winds and other volatile atmospheric shifts.The fast-warming tropical Pacific is pointing to a major event but a crucial weakening of trade winds – capable of turbocharging or throttling the phenomenon – has yet to materialise.Scientists say these interactions are notoriously complex and difficult to…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at Straits Times — World.