ClimateUpdated 28m ago
Record El Niño, Falling Emissions, and Extreme Weather Costs
What it means
El Niño has hit record strength before its December peak, with central Pacific sea-surface temperatures at all-time highs. Carbon emissions fell 4.1% in the first half of 2026 and could decline 2.8% for the full year.
Why it matters
The World Meteorological Organization forecasts a near-100% likelihood El Niño persists through February 2027, potentially among the strongest since 1950. Extreme weather is driving up US insurance rates from California to central Tornado Alley.
How it affects you
Insurance rates are rising across the US because of extreme weather. In Spain, October temperatures exceed 30°C in the southwest and 25°C across most of the country, with no rain until Friday.
