El Nino, a natural warming cycle, has formed in the Pacific Ocean and is expected to grow to historic strength, according to meteorologists. This El Nino is predicted to bring extreme weather across the globe, including heat waves, floods, droughts, and wildfires.

Impacts on the US

The US can expect more intense storms with heavier rainfall in the South, but the El Nino may also benefit the US agriculture industry. The northern Rockies and Southwest may receive strong summer rains, while the Pacific Northwest could become warmer and drier.

Scientists predict that the El Nino will peak in the late fall or early winter and could rival or exceed the record El Nino of 1997. This could lead to billions of dollars in damage and make 2027 the hottest year on record.

Global Impacts

The drought-stricken Middle East could benefit from the El Nino, while other regions, such as western South America, India, and Australia, may face more danger. Northeastern Africa is likely to experience weather whiplash, with intense drought followed by heavy rains.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has described the El Nino as an “urgent climate warning,” stating that it will “pour fuel on the fire of a warming world.”

Original reporting: WPBF West Palm Beach — read the source article.