WMO Predicts Possible El Niño Return in 2026 Amid Neutral Conditions

The United Nations' World Meteorological Organization (WMO) forecasts a possible return of the El Niño weather phenomenon later in 2026 as the current weak La Niña fades into neutral conditions. There is a 60-70% chance of neutral conditions from March to June, with El Niño probabilities rising to 40% by May-July. This warming phase could coincide with India's peak southwest monsoon, potentially affecting rainfall patterns, as El Niño years have historically been linked to reduced monsoon precipitation. The WMO emphasizes these natural events occur amid ongoing human-induced climate change.