Very Strong El Niño Raises Global Extreme-Weather Risks
A rapidly strengthening El Niño climate pattern is raising concerns over widespread disruptions to weather, agriculture, water supplies and food security across several regions of the world.
The World Meteorological Organization forecasts that the current El Niño event will intensify further and could become one of the strongest on record, with conditions expected to persist into early 2027. The unusually warm tropical Pacific is likely to alter rainfall and temperature patterns far beyond the Pacific region.
Forecasters expect increased drought and heat risks across parts of South Asia, Southeast Asia, Australia and southern Africa, while heavier rainfall and flooding risks could increase in parts of East Africa, South America and the southern United States. However, the precise effects will vary by region and season.
The developing event is also raising concerns over crop production, fisheries, water availability and food prices, particularly in vulnerable countries. Humanitarian agencies are warning that droughts, floods and extreme heat could increase food insecurity in parts of Africa, Asia and Latin America.
With the event expected to strengthen through late 2026, governments and humanitarian agencies are increasing preparedness measures and early-warning efforts to reduce the potential impact on vulnerable populations and critical sectors.
Hurricane Polo Intensifies Off Mexico's Pacific Coast
Hurricane Polo has strengthened to Category 5 in the Pacific Ocean off Mexico's southwestern coast, prompting authorities to issue warnings over potentially life-threatening conditions.
Forecasters are monitoring the storm closely as it threatens to bring heavy rainfall, flooding and mudslides to parts of the region. While Polo's projected path continues to evolve, authorities are urging communities in potentially affected areas to remain alert and follow official safety guidance.
Severe Flooding Hits Northern and Central Vietnam
Heavy rainfall has triggered widespread flooding across northern and central Vietnam, leaving at least four people dead and inundating more than 16,000 homes.
The flooding has also caused significant damage to roads, agricultural land and aquaculture facilities, disrupting communities across affected areas. Rescue, evacuation and emergency response operations are continuing as authorities assess the extent of the damage and provide assistance to affected residents.
Major Wildfires Threaten Communities in Colombia
Colombia has declared a public calamity as a major wildfire continues to threaten the historic town of Villa de Leyva. Hundreds of emergency responders are working to contain the blaze, while authorities have ordered evacuations and temporarily closed schools in affected areas.
Several other wildfires are also burning across the country, placing additional pressure on emergency services. Authorities are continuing firefighting and evacuation efforts as they assess the damage and monitor conditions in vulnerable communities.
Flood Emergencies Reported Across Several Countries
Flood emergencies have been reported across several parts of the world, with the UN-backed Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System (GDACS) monitoring active flood situations in countries including Italy, Brazil, Honduras, India, Mexico, the United States and China.
The widespread incidents highlight the continuing threat posed by severe flooding, which is disrupting communities, damaging infrastructure and placing pressure on emergency response services in affected regions. Authorities in several countries are carrying out rescue, evacuation and relief operations as conditions continue to develop.
Earthquake and Volcanic Hazards Remain Under Watch
Seismic and volcanic activity continues to be monitored across several regions, with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System (GDACS) reporting recent significant earthquakes and ongoing volcanic alerts.
A magnitude 5.7 earthquake was recorded near Tonga on September 23, while a magnitude 6.4 earthquake struck Papua New Guinea earlier this month. Authorities and monitoring agencies are also keeping watch on volcanic activity at sites including Chikurachki in Russia and Krakatau in Indonesia, amid continued assessments of potential risks to nearby communities.
