Myanmar’s Department of Meteorology and Hydrology (DMH) issued a public warning on Friday advising communities and agricultural sectors to prepare for an impending El Nino “event” that could transition into a severe climate pattern over the coming months.

According to meteorological monitoring data, sea surface temperatures and atmospheric conditions in the tropical Pacific Ocean near the equator are currently showing clear signs of an emerging El Nino phenomenon.

Climate models suggest a weak phase will likely begin in June, with a strong probability of intensifying into a major El Nino event by late 2026.

Although the meteorological shifts originate in the Pacific Ocean, the resulting global atmospheric disruption frequently triggers severe localized impacts in Myanmar.

Historically, El Nino cycles are directly linked to irregular or delayed monsoon rainfall patterns, an inflation of daytime temperatures, abnormal tropical storm activity, and severe droughts that jeopardize agricultural yields and local water security. These events typically recur on a cycle of two to seven years and can persist anywhere from nine months to well over a year.

The DMH stated that it will continue to provide timely monitoring updates as the atmospheric transition progresses and strongly encourages agricultural, water management, and public health sectors to adapt their contingency plans immediately.