60% chance of El Niño conditions developing in second half of 2026

Meteorological experts have indicated a 60% likelihood of El Niño conditions emerging in the latter half of 2026, a phenomenon known for its significant impact on weather patterns worldwide. For India, El Niño years often correlate with weakened monsoon seasons and increased summer temperatures, raising concerns about potential agricultural repercussions and water scarcity. The El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) is a periodic climate pattern that influences global weather, with El Niño phases typically leading to drier conditions in the Indian subcontinent. As India prepares for future climatic shifts, understanding the implications of El Niño is crucial for farmers, policymakers, and the general public. Preparations and adaptive strategies may be necessary to mitigate the adverse effects on food security and livelihoods as the nation braces for these predicted changes in climate conditions.