China faces extreme weather risks as super El Niño develops

The World Meteorological Organization has confirmed the emergence of an El Niño event, which is expected to intensify into a ‘super El Niño’ by November or December. Experts from the National Climate Center predict this could become one of the strongest on record, significantly impacting weather patterns in China.

During the summer, China has already experienced increased typhoon activity and widespread heavy rainfall. Looking ahead, the autumn season is expected to bring increased precipitation to the Yangtze River basin and southern regions, alongside higher temperatures in parts of South China. A warmer winter with frequent temperature fluctuations is also anticipated.

In northern China, precipitation patterns are shifting, with a trend of increased rainfall and higher frequency of extreme weather events. For August, rainfall is expected to be more concentrated in eastern regions, including parts of Northeast and North China, while western areas may see less. Experts warn of risks including flash floods, landslides, and urban waterlogging, particularly as typhoons move northward.