The El Niño meteorological phenomenon has exceeded all intensity expectations, recording record temperatures months before its maximum peak. Scientists warn that this thermal anomaly in the eastern Pacific triggers the risk of floods, droughts, and extreme heatwaves in various regions of the planet until next year.

The world faces a critical climatic scenario. What began as a prediction has transformed into a "Super El Niño" that is already breaking historical temperature records. According to climatologist Zeke Hausfather, the phenomenon has reached alarming levels long before reaching its peak.

Key Fact: In some areas of the eastern Pacific, sea surface temperatures exceed 3 °C above the usual average.

The expansion of heat is evident. Data from Senamhi show a worrying evolution on the South American coast:

  • September 30: A second heatwave concentrated in Peru and Ecuador was detected.
  • October 14: The heat extended toward the coast of Chile and the southeast Pacific, branching into a much larger mass of warm water.

This cycle, known as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation, occurs when the trade winds—which normally carry warm water toward Australia—lose strength or reverse direction. The World Meteorological Organization is blunt: there is a probability close to 100% that this phenomenon will persist until February of next year.

The impact is not only oceanic; the consequences are already felt on land. In the United States, a DANA is expected to cause intense rains and a cold front to plunge temperatures this weekend.

Climate Risk Expected Impact
Heatwaves Extreme temperatures in various regions.
Precipitation Severe flooding and intense rains.
Water Resources Prolonged droughts in vulnerable areas.

Source: Imago