The possibility of an especially intense episode of El Niño developing in the coming months is generating growing concern among meteorologists and specialized organizations.
Climate models point to a significant probability that the phenomenon will evolve into a so-called "Super Niño," a scenario associated with global thermal anomalies, more persistent heat waves, and meteorological alterations of great impact.
Temperatures typical of July in the middle of May
Spain is already experiencing an episode of anomalous heat for this time of year, with readings in some areas reaching 38 degrees and tropical nights in numerous parts of the country.
The State Meteorological Agency has warned that current temperatures are "more typical of mid-summer," while several communities remain under heat advisories and risk of dry thunderstorms.
According to experts, the atmospheric behavior observed in recent weeks could anticipate an especially extreme summer.
What is "Super Niño"
The El Niño phenomenon occurs when the surface waters of the equatorial Pacific experience warmer-than-usual temperatures due to the weakening of the trade winds.
When this warming reaches very intense levels, its effects can extend globally and alter atmospheric patterns in different regions of the planet.
Meteorologists warn that a strong event can cause:
- More intense heat waves
- Prolonged droughts
- Episodes of torrential rains and floods in other regions
- Agricultural and ecosystem alterations
- Increased sea warming
The Mediterranean, well above normal
One of the most worrying data for specialists is the high temperature of the Mediterranean Sea.
According to the latest analyses, the waters around the Balearic Islands are up to four degrees above the usual average for this time of year, while some areas of the Cantabrian Sea show even greater anomalies.
This water warming favors extreme meteorological phenomena and can intensify severe storms during the summer and early autumn.
AEMET monitors the evolution of the phenomenon
The State Meteorological Agency indicates that there is around a 60% probability that the phenomenon will consolidate during the summer, while the chances of it evolving into a very strong episode would increase towards autumn.
Various communicators and meteorologists are already talking about a possible "historic" event due to its intensity and duration, although experts insist that there are still uncertainties about its definitive evolution.