Strongest El Niño in 140 years feared, global extreme weather warning

Meteorologists fear that a strong El Niño could return this summer. According to experts, it could turn into a 'Super El Niño', which could be one of the strongest events in the last 140 years.

What is El Niño?

El Niño is called an El Niño when sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean increase above normal. This situation is usually created when temperatures are at least 0.5 degrees Celsius higher, which brings about major changes in weather patterns around the world.

How strong can it be?

According to US forecasts, there is a 62 percent chance of El Niño forming this summer. 'Super El Niño' is called when temperatures increase by 2 degrees Celsius or more above normal. Such events are very rare in history.

According to experts, the current climate conditions and the trend of increasing sea temperatures indicate that this year's El Niño could be very strong.

Where and what impact could it have?

El Niño can cause different weather patterns in different parts of the world

Severe drought and heat in Australia, southern Africa, India and parts of South America
Increased forest fires and environmental risks in the Amazon region
Excessive rainfall and flooding in the southern United States, the Middle East and South-Central Asia
Increased intensity of cyclones in the Pacific Ocean
Past experience

The 2015 'Super El Niño' had a major impact around the world. Severe droughts in some African countries, water shortages in Puerto Rico and powerful cyclones were seen.

What do international organizations say?

The World Meteorological Organization said that recent El Niño events have already played a major role in increasing global temperatures. They warned that such climate change could have a major impact on agriculture, water, health and energy sectors.

Experts say that although the situation is not yet final, the risks are still high. Therefore, preparing in advance will be the most effective way to reduce damage.