Worcestershire urged to prepare for flooding amid El Niño risks

Residents in Worcestershire are being urged to prepare for potential flooding as a record-breaking El Niño increases the risk of autumn and winter storms. Flood resilience expert Mary Long-Dhonau OBE has advised households to take practical steps now to mitigate the impact of extreme weather.

The Met Office reports that sea-surface temperatures in the central equatorial Pacific have surpassed levels from any previous event. While the Government Office for Science suggests a significant El Niño event is likely toward the end of 2026, the current phenomenon poses immediate concerns regarding global supply chains.

Secondary effects of El Niño may include reduced crop yields and rising prices for commodities such as rice, cocoa, and coffee. Additionally, while the UK maintains an energy buffer for the upcoming winter, Europe may face increased competition for energy supplies like LNG.