Scientists have warned that Australia and many other countries are now facing the most severe El Niño weather pattern recorded in the past ten years.

Rapid warming of the Pacific Ocean has significantly increased the risk of extreme drought, devastating bushfires, and prolonged heat in the coming months.

Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology declared an El Niño event in June, with Pacific sea surface temperatures reaching 2.02°C above average in early August—the first time they have exceeded the 2°C mark since 2016.

Climate experts say temperatures could climb to 3.5°C by November, surpassing the long-standing 1902 record of 2.65°C and potentially creating the strongest El Niño event on record.

Forecasts also suggest the powerful climate pattern could persist until early 2027, extending its impact across Australia and other parts of the world.

Experts are warning that prolonged heat and below-average rainfall could trigger widespread water shortages, food supply pressures, and an intense bushfire season.