Nepal's Himalayan disaster underscores mounting climate risks as WMO warns of stronger El Niño
Summary
Nepal’s Himalayan glacial collapse and flash floods are cited by the WMO as a stark example of rising climate risks in warming mountain regions. The agency says a strengthening El Niño could make 2026 one of the warmest years on record and intensify extreme weather into 2027.
Key Points
- The WMO’s 2026 climate update cites Nepal’s Himalayan disaster as evidence of growing dangers in fragile, warming mountain regions.
- A developing El Niño is expected to amplify global temperatures and extreme weather, with 2026 projected to be among the four warmest years on record.
- UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for faster emissions cuts, a just transition away from fossil fuels and more finance for vulnerable countries.
- The report warns that glacier loss, sea-level rise, ocean warming and worsening heat, drought and rainfall are increasing risks to food security, health and livelihoods.
