How will this year’s record-breaking El Niño affect NZ and the world? 5 things to know

By Kevin Trenberth, Distinguished Scholar, National Center for Atmospheric Research; Affiliate Faculty, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

Months out from its projected peak, El Niño is already helping push ocean temperatures into record territory.

July brought the highest global sea-surface temperatures ever recorded for that month, partly fuelled by the fast-developing climate pattern. The latest forecasts suggest there is much more to come.

So, what exactly is El Niño, why is this one potentially so significant and what could it mean for New Zealand? Here are five things to know.

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How will this year’s record-breaking El Niño affect NZ and the world? 5 things to know

El Niño begins with a huge shift in ocean…Read complete article© The Conversation - Monday, August 24, 2026

El Niño begins with a huge shift in ocean…

Read complete article
© The Conversation - Monday, August 24, 2026