El Niño intensifies, driving droughts and wildfires globally

Governments are preparing for significant weather disruptions as an intensifying El Niño pattern increases the risk of droughts, floods, extreme heat, and wildfires.

In Sri Lanka, a severe drought has caused water levels in hundreds of small tanks to drop to approximately 10 percent. The government has allocated 4.8 billion rupees ($14 million) to facilitate water deliveries for nearly 72,000 residents across seven districts. Environment Minister Dammika Patabendi noted that while El Niño was expected to peak in November, it may now peak sooner.

In Indonesia, dry conditions have contributed to wildfires that have burned over 200,000 hectares since the start of the year. In July alone, 95,000 hectares were destroyed, resulting in thick smog and poor air quality in regions such as Central Kalimantan.