WMO headlines: EL NiñO looming, record heat waves, and worsening climate impacts tied to global weather patterns. International body under UN; coordinates meteorology, climate, and hydrology.
An intense early‑season heatwave has shattered temperature records across western Europe since June 20, with parts of France, Germany, Spain and the UK reaching 39–44°C. French authorities have reported dozens of heat‑linked deaths and a spike in drownings; hospitals, transport and power systems have been strained while scientists say human‑caused climate change has made the event far more likely.
Experts are monitoring a high likelihood of a strong El Niño developing this summer, which could lead to record global temperatures in 2027. The phenomenon may cause extreme weather events worldwide, including droughts and heavy rainfall, with a 62% chance of a super El Niño persisting into the end of the year.
A European study has quantified how inequality increases temperature-related deaths. If Europe’s regions reached the lowest level of material deprivation, heat and cold-related mortality could fall by up to 30%, a major policy argument for targeted relief and poverty reduction.
The World Meteorological Organization and European agencies have released their 2025 State of the Climate findings saying at least 95% of Europe has recorded above-average annual temperatures, marine heatwaves and more than 1 million hectares burned by wildfires; glaciers and snow cover have lost mass and the Greenland ice sheet has contributed to sea level rise.
Fires have burned record extents this year, El Niño is strengthening global heat and drought patterns, and inequality is linked to higher temperature-related deaths in Europe, with warnings of worsening extremes in coming months.
Official hydrological outlook warns of below-normal river flows in central and southern England for the coming weeks, with rainfall in April 23% below average. Groundwater and reservoir levels are under pressure in the South and East, though some storage remains stable. Farmers warn on future supply; a Fens Reservoir is planned for the 2030s.
The UN's WMO has warned a record-breaking hot year is likely to occur by 2030 as El Niño strengthens, with 2027 potentially setting a new global heat record. The latest report notes rising fossil-fuel emissions and intensifying heatwaves across Europe and beyond, underlining the urgency of cutting emissions and accelerating clean energy adoption.
The World Meteorological Organization has projected that the Arctic will warm much faster than the rest of the globe, and that multiple scenarios through 2030 will exceed the Paris 1.5°C threshold. The report indicates increased risks of extreme weather, droughts, and wildfires, with El Niño likely to push temperatures higher in coming years.
The European Union has announced a substantial investment in ocean observation, positioning Europe at the forefront of marine monitoring as the United States proceeds with the dismantling of the Ocean Observatories Initiative. The NSF has begun a descope of the OOI, pulling instruments from multiple U.S. sites while the EU commits hundreds of millions to expand global ocean data networks.
New research shows heatwaves are intensifying and altering daily life. In India, extreme temperatures amid water shortages threaten health and livelihoods. The study highlights vulnerable groups and calls for adaptive measures such as cooling centres and flexible work hours.
El Niño has formed in the Pacific and is expected to strengthen through late 2026, with a 63% chance of reaching a very strong level. Forecasts warn of hotter global temperatures and extreme weather, while impacts will vary by region. Scientists urge preparation and climate action as nations monitor evolving conditions.
France leads with record heat as Europe endures a Omega-block-driven heat wave. France, Italy and Britain report extreme temperatures, power outages and weather-related disruptions; authorities warn of ongoing risks.