Chilean meteorologist Eduardo Sáez has warned that a developing 'Super Niño' phenomenon could bring a moderately rainy winter to the country, bringing risks of heavy rainfall and river flooding.
Speaking on Chilevisión Noticias' 'Una Nueva Mañana,' Sáez dismissed the popular 'Godzilla Niño' moniker as an outdated term. He clarified that the technical reality involves a significant rise in sea surface temperatures.
According to Sápend, the phenomenon is officially classified as a 'Super Niño' if ocean temperatures rise more than one degree above average. Current models suggest temperatures could reach 1.5 degrees Celsius by the end of the year.
Potential for extreme weather
Sáez cautioned that if temperatures approach a two-degree increase, Chile could face conditions similar to the 2023-2024 period. That season was marked by intense rains and high-category atmospheric rivers that caused widespread flooding.
'By generating more evaporation, it makes atmospheric rivers category 4 or 5, which are the strongest,' Sáez explained. He specifically cited previous river overflows in the Maule and Ñuble regions as a primary concern.
While uncertainty remains during the current transition months, approximately 40% of climate models point to the emergence of El Niño between May and July. The timing of the phenomenon will dictate the winter's impact.
If the phenomenon consolidates during the winter months, it could lead to a much wetter season. Conversely, a late arrival would likely reduce the impact on national precipitation levels.
Sáez noted that while these rains might offer temporary relief from the ongoing drought, they cannot solve the structural water crisis. 'We will probably have security for one or two years, but it does not guarantee ten years,' he warned.
He urged authorities and residents to begin preventative measures immediately. This includes cleaning riverbeds and preparing infrastructure to handle potential surges in water levels.