Climatologists Warn of Upcoming Weather Chaos

Climatologists are predicting a possible formation of El Niño in the second half of the year, which could become one of the most powerful phenomena in the history of observations. According to seasonal model data, the El Niño climate phenomenon could bring about new outbreaks of extreme weather.

The chief meteorologist and climate specialist at Florida's WFLA-TV, Jeff Berardelli, warns, "I think we will witness weather phenomena that have not occurred in recent history." The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) reports that this year's upcoming phenomenon will affect global temperatures and precipitation. Despite the projected intensity, the WMO notes that accurate modeling in spring is more complex.

El Niño is a periodic warming of the equatorial region of the Pacific Ocean that alters global weather, while its opposite, La Niña, is characterized by lower temperatures. According to Berardelli, the heat accumulated in the Pacific Ocean is currently shifting eastward and rising to the surface, marking the initial phase of the phenomenon.

WMO representative Wilfran Mufumba Okian confirms that sea surface temperatures are rapidly increasing and there is high confidence that El Niño will strengthen in the coming months. This phenomenon typically recurs every 2-7 years and lasts for 9-12 months.

Climate scientist Daniel Swain notes that the volume of warm water in the depths of the ocean is nearing historical maximums. Although the U.S. NOAA does not use the term "super El Niño," Swain emphasizes the potential for an extraordinary event. According to Berardelli, this "recharging" of the climate system could lead to weather chaos, including extreme heat, drought, and intense flooding. At the same time, it could weaken the hurricane season in the Atlantic Ocean.

This summer is expected to be hotter than usual in the United States, while the situation may worsen in the Amazon. Swain predicts record global temperatures either this year or next. Climate scientist Michael Mann adds that while El Niño temporarily raises temperatures, the main danger remains the long-term trend of warming caused by fossil fuel combustion.