World risks year of severe fires fuelled by climate change: researchers
Summary
Researchers warn the world could face a year of particularly severe wildfires in 2026 driven by climate change and a potential strong El Nino, with record-breaking fire activity already observed.
Key Points
- The global fire season in 2026 has started 50% more intense than average for this time of year.
- El Nino, a natural climate cycle, may strengthen this year and exacerbate wildfire severity.
- Fires have already burned over 163 million hectares since January, breaking records in multiple regions.
- Climate change combined with El Nino poses serious risks of unprecedented weather extremes this year.
