Kathmandu— Governments across multiple continents are preparing for significant climate disruptions as a powerful El Niño event intensifies, raising the prospect of historic weather extremes later this year. Sri Lanka is currently delivering water to nearly 72,000 people in seven districts experiencing severe drought conditions linked to the phenomenon, while Indonesia battles widespread wildfires and Peru anticipates needing military medical assistance. The developing situation has also prompted drought alerts in Honduras as harvests fail and livestock perish.

Sri Lanka Faces Severe Drought

Sri Lanka has allocated 4.8 billion rupees ($14 million) to combat a severe drought impacting nearly 72,000 people across seven districts. Water is being delivered via truck, with families receiving approximately 75 litres (20 gallons) every two to three days for drinking and sanitation needs. Minister of Environment Dammika Patabendi indicated that while the government initially expected El Niño to peak around November, current data suggests it may peak sooner, necessitating potential revisions to response measures.

Indonesian Wildfires Intensify

Indonesia is grappling with widespread wildfires that have consumed over 200,000 hectares (494,200 acres) since the start of the year – an area roughly three times the size of Jakarta. In July alone, fires destroyed 95,000 hectares (234,750 acres) due to dry conditions exacerbated by El Niño. The resulting thick smog has enveloped cities like Palangkaraya in Borneo, prompting authorities to advise residents to wear masks and stay indoors.

Regional Responses and Preparations

The United States is preparing to deploy a military hospital to Peru next year to aid the country in managing the effects of El Niño. In Honduras, 80 percent of the nation, including the capital city, has been placed on drought alert following crop failures and livestock deaths attributed to the dry weather. Indonesia’s Forestry Minister Raja Juli Antoni stated that experts are prepared for cloud seeding operations if suitable conditions arise.

Understanding the El Niño Phenomenon

El Niño is a naturally occurring climate pattern characterized by unusually warm sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. This phenomenon typically alters global weather patterns, increasing the risk of drought, flooding, extreme heat, and wildfires. Current predictions suggest this year’s event could be among the most severe on record.

Governments continue to monitor the evolving El Niño conditions and adjust their response strategies as needed, anticipating potential impacts throughout the remainder of 2023 and into early 2024.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.