Strengthening El Niño could be one of the strongest on record

Wednesday 2 September 2026 · 5 outlets · 4 reports · updated Wed 2 Sep, 10:16am

In this story Earth Sciences New Zealand

Earth Sciences New Zealand reports that a rapidly intensifying El Niño may become one of the strongest in recent history. The event is expected to bring windy weather and dry spells to northern and eastern areas, while the south and west face risks of heavy rain and storms this spring.

How they headlined it

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1. StuffWed 2 Sep, 6:00am

   ‘Godzilla’ El Niño has strengthened significantly: What NZ should prepare for this spring (opens in new tab)

   • Strongest El Niño in decades set to reshape Spring weather (opens in new tab) Wed 2 Sep, 6:00am
2. 1NewsWed 2 Sep, 6:00am

   One of strongest El Niños on record to drive warm, windy spring for NZ (opens in new tab)

3. The Press via RNZWed 2 Sep, 10:16am

   El Niño expected to be 'strongest in recent history' (opens in new tab)

   Also on NZ Herald (opens in new tab), Otago Daily Times (opens in new tab)