newspop
A ‘Super’ El Niño Is Brewing : Why Scientists Are Worried About India
NewDelhi : A major climate warning is drawing attention across India as more than 180 scientists and ecologists urge authorities and researchers to prepare for a potentially exceptionally strong El Niño during 2026–27. In an appeal published on September 16, 2026, the India Ecology Collective said the event could bring unusual climatic conditions affecting India’s marine, freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems.
El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon in which surface waters of the tropical Pacific become unusually warm, altering atmospheric circulation and weather patterns around the world. The US Climate Prediction Center said on September 10 that El Niño was strengthening, with more than a 90% chance of a very strong event during the Northern Hemisphere autumn and winter of 2026–27.
For India, scientists are particularly concerned about the possibility of extreme heat, drought, wildfires and pressure on water resources and ecosystems. The scientists’ appeal also highlights potential impacts on coral reefs, forests and wildlife, while warning that farmers, fishermen and pastoral communities could face serious challenges if extreme heat and dry conditions develop.
Recent climate forecasts indicate that the event could remain significant into early 2027. The World Meteorological Organization has projected a very strong El Niño continuing through February 2027, while Japan’s JAMSTEC forecast has suggested the event could become exceptionally strong before beginning to weaken during the following winter. However, the exact intensity and regional consequences remain uncertain, and not every El Niño produces the same impacts in India. Scientists are therefore calling for stronger monitoring, data collection and advance preparedness rather than waiting until damage occurs.
Mudasir Maqbool
