YANGON: The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH) in Myanmar has forecast that El Nino, a climate phenomenon associated with irregular rainfall, abnormal storm activity and drought, is likely to strengthen during 2026, reaching a moderate level in July and potentially becoming very strong by the end of the year.
According to the DMH, sea surface temperatures and atmospheric conditions in the tropical Pacific Ocean near the Equator are currently consistent with a weak El Nino.
Based on forecasts from international meteorological agencies and climate models, the phenomenon is expected to intensify to a moderate El Nino during July 2026 and could develop into a very strong event towards the end of the year.
Although El Nino originates in the Pacific Ocean, its impacts are felt globally. It is commonly linked to irregular rainfall patterns, higher daytime temperatures, unusual storm activity, drought and other extreme weather events.
The DMH has urged relevant sectors to make advance preparations for possible impacts and said it will continue to issue timely updates on the evolving El Nino conditions. - Eleven Media/ANN
