# The 2026 El Niño Could Be the Strongest on Record Global temperatures and economic impacts may reach unprecedented levels. - **Source:** [Science Latest](https://brifing.si/source/ebc20f22-8d1a-4ae4-ba4c-efcd0853ba19) - **Published:** 2026-07-24 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/1f17424e-5ede-48bc-b7db-af4305b5fffb ## What is El Niño? El Niño is a climate phenomenon characterized by warmer-than-normal sea temperatures in the eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. It disrupts global weather patterns, leading to extreme weather events. ## Record-Breaking Strength According to Berkeley Earth climate scientist Zeke Hausfather, the 2026 El Niño could be the strongest on record. Models predict Pacific temperatures could rise 3.6°C above normal levels. ## Global Impacts El Niño's effects are not confined to the Pacific. It alters global weather patterns, causing extreme heat, floods, and droughts. This can impact agriculture, fisheries, and energy sectors worldwide. ## Economic Consequences The 1997-1998 El Niño reduced global economic growth by $5.7 trillion. Current projections suggest the 2026 event could lead to $10 trillion in economic losses by 2032. ## Rapid Development This year's El Niño is developing faster than previous super El Niños. Despite starting after La Niña, temperatures are rising rapidly, and effects are being felt earlier than expected. ## Future Scenarios Models predict global temperatures could reach 1.7°C above pre-industrial levels by 2027. This could surpass the critical 1.5°C threshold in the fight against climate change. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.wired.com/story/2026-el-nino-the-strongest-in-150-years/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._