One of the most powerful El Niños on record cost the world economy $5.7 trillion. The 2026 cycle might be even stronger
A new El Niño event has officially formed over the Pacific Ocean, with early forecasts indicating it could be a particularly strong one. This natural climate pattern, typically associated with warmer temperatures, has historically led to significant global economic losses due to extreme weather events like droughts and floods. Past intense El Niños have cost trillions of dollars in lost income, and projections suggest cumulative effects over the 21st century could reach $84 trillion. AI
