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Bureau of Meteorology forecasts event to peak in late spring or summer, reaching levels above any since 1950
The Bureau of Meteorology has forecast that El Niño will peak in late spring or summer and "reach levels above the warmest observed since reliable records began in 1950".
Predicted hot and dry weather in growing areas in eastern Australia has been identified as "one of the key issues" that will affect food prices over the next 12 months. The warning comes as Australian households continue to grapple with elevated grocery costs following the post-pandemic spike in inflation.
El Niño is a climate pattern that typically brings hotter and drier conditions to eastern Australia, often reducing crop yields and putting upward pressure on food prices. The current event is predicted to be the strongest on record, surpassing previous extremes observed since reliable records began in 1950. This comes after a period of already-elevated food inflation stemming from the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Australian households: Face the prospect of higher supermarket bills at a time when many are already struggling with the cost of living. Reserve Bank of Australia: Its efforts to curb inflation could be undermined if food prices rise significantly, potentially delaying interest rate cuts. Farmers and agricultural producers: Hot and dry conditions in key growing regions threaten crop quality and yields, with direct consequences for supply and pricing.