World Capitals, June 11 (SANA)May 2026 was the world’s second-warmest May globally on record since climate records began, according to the European Copernicus Climate Change Service, as global temperatures remained significantly above pre-industrial levels amid continuingclimate changeand growing indications of an emerging El Niño event.

Copernicus attributed the elevated temperatures to ongoing human-induced warming, persistently high ocean temperatures and increasing signs of the development of the El Niño climate pattern in the Pacific Ocean.

The European climate monitoring service reported that the global average temperature during the month was approximately 1.42 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. Sea surface temperatures also remained close to the record highs observed in recent years.

Large parts of Europe experienced unusually early and intense heat waves during May, with several countries recording new temperature records.

Scientists say such events are consistent with broader warming trends and have intensified concerns about the accelerating effects of climate change.

TheWorld Meteorological Organizationhas indicated that climate models point to a high likelihood of El Niño developing during the second half of 2026. The phenomenon could strengthen toward the end of the year and influence weather patterns across many regions of the world.

Climate experts say 2026 is on track to rank among the hottest years in modern history, as the combined effects of long-term climate change and natural climate variability, including El Niño, increase the likelihood and severity of extreme weather events in the months ahead.