El Nino Intensifies: Pacific Ocean Temperatures Hit Record High
El Nino Intensifies: Pacific Ocean Temperatures Hit Record High
IN · Published Oct 24, 2026
• The Pacific Ocean has reached a significant temperature milestone as an exceptionally strong El Nino event continues to intensify.
• On 22 October 2026, sea surface temperatures in the central equatorial Pacific hit 30°C, marking the highest temperature recorded in available data, according to the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Impact & Risks

India is already experiencing the effects of the developing El Nino, with the southwest monsoon in 2026 ending 13% below normal, as reported by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The WMO forecasts above-normal temperatures across much of South Asia in the coming months, alongside a higher likelihood of below-normal rainfall in central and southern peninsular regions during October to December. These changes could exacerbate water scarcity, impact agriculture, and increase the risk of heatwaves. While El Nino is not the sole determinant of India's weather, its intensification raises concerns about disruptive climatic events.

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