Record El Niño peak forecast as Pacific ocean temperature breaks

Australia's Bureau of Meteorology forecasts El Niño will peak above the warmest levels recorded since 1950. Ocean temperatures in the key zone have warmed faster than any previous event.

Why it mattersRecord El Niño typically brings drought, heatwaves and bushfire risk to Australia's east and south-east. This threatens water supplies, crops and fire seasons.

AustraliaAustralians should expect hotter, drier conditions through spring and summer, with elevated risks of water restrictions, heat-related illness, and bushfires, particularly in the east and south-east.

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Aerial view of coastal town with beachfront residential development and ocean waves.

✓ The Guardian AustraliaPlanet & Environment

267,000 Australian homes at risk from rising seas by 2100

The Climate Council projects more than 267,000 coastal properties will face damage from flooding by end of century.

Why it mattersHundreds of billions in property damage and lost land affects property values, insurance costs, and whether people can stay in coastal areas.