The Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) has warned that the expected El Niño phenomenon in 2026 could push global temperatures higher, increasing the risk of prolonged droughts, severe floods and heatwaves across different regions.
El Niño occurs when sea surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific Ocean become warmer than normal, disrupting atmospheric circulation and altering global weather patterns.
According to MetMalaysia, the impacts of El Niño vary by region. Asia and Oceania are likely to experience hotter weather and a higher risk of drought, while northern North America could see wetter conditions and its southern regions become hotter and drier. Western South America may receive heavier rainfall, whereas southern parts are expected to become drier. In Africa, rainfall is expected to become more erratic in the east, while southern regions face hotter and drier conditions.
The weather phenomenon also poses risks to food security, water resources and the environment, with lower crop yields, increasing pressure on clean water supplies, higher forest fire risks, and a greater likelihood of floods and landslides in areas affected by heavy rainfall.
MetMalaysia urged governments and communities to strengthen preparedness through effective water resource and dam management, improved weather monitoring and forecasting, environmental conservation, and disaster readiness.
The department also advised the public to conserve water, reduce food waste, support local products and share only verified information to help minimise the impacts of El Niño.
