Headlines have been proclaiming that one of the strongest El Nino weather patterns in recent decades might be starting up later this year. If a big one kicks in, as forecasts currently suggest, it could bring floods, droughts and other weather extremes to many parts of the globe, as well as potentially boost 2027's temperatures to record highs. In the past few months, sea surface temperatures in parts of the tropical Pacific Ocean have warmed more than usual, which is the hallmark of an emerging El Nino. Still uncertain, however, is whether winds and other weather factors will either ratchet up that ocean heat or temper it ' and therefore weaken the possibility of a strong El Nino. The latest forecast from the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), released today, suggests that there is a strong chance of an El Nino developing between May and July this year, but that there is much uncertainty in its peak strength. This will become clearer during summer in the...
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