By Zoila Palma: An exceptionally strong El Niño weather cycle is contributing to drought, wildfires, power shortages and growing food security concerns in several parts of the world, with scientists warning that its effects could intensify as the phenomenon approaches its expected peak in December.
In Indonesia, prolonged dry conditions have contributed to fires in forests and plantations in Borneo and South Sumatra, triggering a regional haze crisis that has affected neighbouring Malaysia and Singapore.
Authorities and conservation groups have rescued dozens of orangutans from the fires. Meanwhile, Brazil’s Amazon region has also experienced widespread fires, with Amazonas state recording nearly four times as many fire hotspots in September as in the same month last year.
In Myanmar, authorities have warned of possible electricity outages as unusually high temperatures increase power demand, while the Philippines is preparing for higher energy consumption and potential declines in hydropower production. The impacts are also raising concerns about food security, with International Monetary Fund Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva expressing concern about the global consequences and saying the IMF is preparing to support countries that may struggle to cope.
The World Meteorological Organization has warned that El Niño is likely to bring above-average temperatures to much of the world and alter rainfall patterns, increasing the risk of droughts and floods.
The post International News: Strong El Niño raises global concerns over wildfires, food security and power shortages appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.