In conversation with South African Meterologist and Climate Scientist, senior weather forecaster at SAWS Tokelo Chiloane
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South Africa is heading into a potentially very strong El Niño, with forecasts pointing to above-normal temperatures and below-normal rainfall across much of the country.
The South African Weather Service’s latest outlook indicates that the October to December 2026 period is very likely to experience above-normal temperatures across much of the country. The World Meteorological Organization has also warned that the developing El Niño could potentially become the strongest ever recorded, while projections suggest that 2027 could potentially become the hottest year on record.
This raises important questions about what these conditions could mean for South Africa’s economy and society, particularly as the country continues to confront the realities of climate change. From water security and agriculture to food prices, livelihoods and economic stability, the potential impact could be significant.
At the same time, concerns around the withdrawal or reduction of climate-change funding have raised questions about whether vulnerable countries will have sufficient resources to prepare for and respond to these challenges.
The South African Weather Service’s latest outlook indicates that the October to December 2026 period is very likely to experience above-normal temperatures across much of the country. The World Meteorological Organization has also warned that the developing El Niño could potentially become the strongest ever recorded, while projections suggest that 2027 could potentially become the hottest year on record.
This raises important questions about what these conditions could mean for South Africa’s economy and society, particularly as the country continues to confront the realities of climate change. From water security and agriculture to food prices, livelihoods and economic stability, the potential impact could be significant.
At the same time, concerns around the withdrawal or reduction of climate-change funding have raised questions about whether vulnerable countries will have sufficient resources to prepare for and respond to these challenges.
