Scientific models project record-strength El Niño for South Africa

Climate models project an unusually early and record-strength El Niño event for South Africa, threatening extreme heat and drought conditions for the upcoming summer season. This emerging claim, supported by multiple climate models, introduces significant uncertainty regarding agricultural output and water security. Separately, long-range simulations indicate a 90% probability of a record-breaking global El Niño in 2026, though specific regional impacts remain uncertain.