Natural Disasters & Climate Events
2026-06-02.
[Briefing]
Multiple severe weather events are currently impacting regions globally while forecasters warn of escalating climate risks ahead. Tropical Storm Jangmi has struck Japan with at least 9 injuries and widespread power outages reported, while typhoon-affected sugar workers in the Philippines' Negros region are receiving government aid. The UN's World Meteorological Organization forecasts an 80% probability of a strong El Niño developing through August 2026, which is expected to drive extreme heat and increased natural disasters worldwide, with France already experiencing record-breaking spring temperatures. The situation is escalating, with immediate humanitarian response underway and significant climate disruptions anticipated in the coming months.
[Key figures]
Verified Jun 2, 06:20 PMINJURED (TROPICAL STORM JANGMI, JAPAN)
9
EL NIÑO DEVELOPMENT PROBABILITY (JUNE-AUGUST 2026)
80%
FRANCE SPRING 2026 AVERAGE TEMPERATURE
13.8°C
COUNTRIES AFFECTED BY REPORTED EVENTS
3
[Situation map]
[Timeline]
UN forecasts 80% probability of strong El Niño through August 2026
The World Meteorological Organization has forecast an 80% probability that El Niño will develop between June and August 2026, driven by exceptionally warm Pacific Ocean temperatures. The UN warns the phenomenon could trigger record heat waves in 2027 and significantly disrupt global precipitation patterns, rainfall distribution, and food and energy supplies, with heightened risks for vulnerable communities.
Tropical Storm Jangmi strikes Japan; at least 9 injured, widespread power outages
Tropical Storm Jangmi has struck Japan, leaving at least 9 people injured and causing widespread power outages across affected regions. The storm represents an immediate humanitarian emergency concurrent with broader weather emergencies unfolding across multiple regions.
UN warns 80% probability of El Niño could trigger record 2027 heat waves
The World Meteorological Organization has forecast an 80% probability of El Niño developing between June and August, driven by exceptionally warm tropical Pacific ocean temperatures, according to RTÉ News Ireland and Channel News Asia. The UN warns the phenomenon could exacerbate climate change and potentially trigger record heat waves in 2027, with significant impacts on global precipitation and temperature patterns worldwide.
UN forecasts 80% probability of El Niño developing June-August 2024
The World Meteorological Organization has issued an 80% probability forecast for El Niño development between June and August 2024, driven by exceptionally warm tropical Pacific ocean temperatures. The UN warns the phenomenon could exacerbate current climate change and potentially trigger record heat waves in 2027, with significant impacts on global precipitation and temperature patterns.
Tropical Storm Jangmi injures 9 in Japan, thousands lose power
Tropical Storm Jangmi has struck Japan, injuring at least 9 people and leaving thousands without power as the storm disrupts infrastructure across the nation, according to Channel News Asia. Rescue efforts are ongoing to assist those affected as authorities monitor the storm's trajectory and potential for further damage.
Meteorological Agencies Forecast Over 80% Probability of El Niño in 2026
Meteorological agencies, including Singapore's Meteorological Service, have issued a forecast indicating over an 80 percent probability of an El Niño event occurring in 2026, according to Channel News Asia. The phenomenon could significantly impact weather patterns across Singapore and the broader Asia-Pacific region, prompting regional preparedness measures.
South Africa floods kill at least 6; Typhoon Domeng batters Philippines
Multiple severe weather events are escalating globally as climate patterns intensify. Flooding in South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal province has killed at least six people, while Typhoon Domeng continues to batter the Philippines with sustained winds of 120 km/h, compounding disaster risks across the region.
Record-breaking El Niño conditions intensifying globally
The Atlantic basin is experiencing record-breaking El Niño conditions that are expected to intensify, according to Frankfurter Allgemeine. The phenomenon could become a particularly strong event with significant consequences across Europe and other regions, potentially exacerbating extreme weather events including droughts and floods already impacting multiple continents.
Death toll rises to six in South Africa flooding crisis
At least six people have been killed in deadly river crossings in KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa, with the village of uMhlwazi now isolated following severe flooding and infrastructure damage, according to Mail & Guardian. The Indaka River, which residents including schoolchildren must cross daily due to lack of bridge infrastructure, has become increasingly dangerous with continued rainfall expected in affected areas over coming days.
Typhoon Domeng maintains strength, brings flash flood risk to Philippines
Typhoon Domeng is maintaining maximum sustained winds of 120 km/h with gusts reaching 150 km/h east of Batanes, according to Rappler. While the typhoon is not expected to make landfall, it is bringing scattered rain, thunderstorms, and the enhanced southwest monsoon is creating conditions for flash floods and landslides across several regions.
Six dead as river crossings claim lives in KZN village
A village in KwaZulu-Natal's uThukela district has been cut off and left without adequate infrastructure following deadly river crossings, according to Mail & Guardian. The Indaka River has claimed six lives as residents, including schoolchildren, are forced to cross the crocodile-infested waters daily due to the absence of a bridge, despite local officials' unfulfilled promises to build one.
Severe Storm Causes Travel Disruptions in German State
A severe thunderstorm with heavy rain and gusty winds has caused significant disruptions to transportation in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, according to Frankfurter Allgemeine. Multiple long-distance trains were forced to halt their journeys, and fire departments remain actively deployed, particularly in Münster, as the region deals with the impacts of the extreme weather event.
Severe Storm Disrupts Transportation in German State
A severe thunderstorm with heavy rain and gusty winds has caused significant disruptions across North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, affecting both rail and road transport. According to Frankfurter Allgemeine, multiple long-distance trains were forced to halt their journeys, while fire departments remained on constant duty particularly in Münster as the storm battered the region.
Tropical Storm Domeng to intensify into typhoon this weekend
Tropical Storm Domeng is expected to intensify into a typhoon by Saturday or Sunday, according to the Philippine Daily Inquirer. The upgrade poses escalating risks to the Philippines, already reeling from Super El Niño impacts including record heat indices exceeding 48°C and damaged rice crops.
Tropical Storm Domeng to intensify into typhoon this weekend
Tropical Storm Domeng is expected to intensify into a typhoon by Saturday or Sunday, according to the Philippine Daily Inquirer. The upgrade poses heightened risks for the Philippines, already reeling from a Super El Niño event that has damaged rice crops and disrupted marine ecosystems.
India faces below-average monsoon rainfall threat
India is expected to receive below-normal rainfall during the upcoming monsoon season, raising concerns about agricultural productivity, DW Top Stories reports. The forecasted shortfall compounds food security risks already heightened by El Niño-driven disruptions across South and Southeast Asia.
El Niño threatens 700,000 metric tons of Philippine rice production
The Philippine Department of Agriculture warns that El Niño conditions could slash the country's rice output by 700,000 metric tons, according to the Philippine Daily Inquirer. The forecast comes as El Niño simultaneously intensifies haze risk in Singapore and threatens agricultural productivity across the region.
Climate models failing to capture Global South impacts, study finds
A new study warns that climate models are fundamentally failing to reflect the realities and inequalities facing developing nations, according to the Mail & Guardian. The research calls for a radical rethink of environmental modeling to better account for the Global South's vulnerabilities and calls for a Global South-led approach to climate scenarios.
UN warns Earth to hit 1.5°C threshold within 5 years
The World Meteorological Organization has warned that global temperatures will exceed the critical 1.5°C warming threshold within five years, marking a major milestone in climate escalation, according to DW Top Stories. The forecast predicts a high probability of record heat between 2026-2030, with meteorologists emphasizing the accelerating pace of warming.
Windstorm kills woman in Nigeria's Benue community
A deadly windstorm with heavy rainfall struck Obi Local Government Area in Benue State, Nigeria, killing a food vendor and destroying multiple properties, according to BusinessDay Nigeria. The incident underscores the escalating threat of extreme weather events to communities across the region.
[Articles]
Germany news: Summer thunderstorms wreak havoc
Summer thunderstorms in Germany have caused flooding, injuries, and evacuations, with several people hospitalized due to lightning, high winds, and heavy rain. The storms brought significant disruption overnight.
One in ten homes in France is adapted to heatwaves
In France, only one in ten homes is sufficiently adapted to heatwaves, with a lack of shutters and blinds being the main factor contributing to overheating, according to an alliance of industrialists who criticize France's delay in addressing the issue.
Storms and Extreme Heat: Nine Injured in Lightning Strike in Baden-Württemberg – Flooding in Rhineland-Palatinate
Germany is experiencing extremely high temperatures over the weekend with no end in sight, bringing severe weather and dangers. Nine people were injured in a lightning strike in Baden-Württemberg, and flooding occurred in Rhineland-Palatinate, with rescue teams on constant duty.
Heatwave in Germany: These ten regions are especially hot
A heatwave is rolling over Germany, with ten regions expected to be particularly affected, accompanied by severe thunderstorms in the evening. These regions are bracing themselves for the extreme weather conditions.
Environmental impact of air conditioning during heatwaves
The use of air conditioning during heatwaves has an environmental impact, generating around 5% of greenhouse gas emissions from the building sector in France, according to Ademe. The organization calls for more reasonable use of air conditioning to mitigate its effects.
Up to 43°C expected on Monday: track the heatwave on maps
A severe heatwave is expected to hit France, with temperatures potentially reaching up to 43°C, exceeding seasonal norms by nearly 18°C. The heatwave's evolution can be tracked on maps, with forecasts indicating a significant rise in temperatures across the country.
Storm forces festival evacuation - 13 people injured
A storm in the north of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany, caused a festival with around 5,000 guests to be evacuated, resulting in 13 people being injured. The storm brought unrest to the region, particularly in the district of Nordfriesland.
Western Europe braces for more extreme heat as temperatures continue to climb
Western Europe is experiencing a severe heatwave, with temperatures expected to climb further and potentially break records. Authorities across the continent are issuing warnings and taking measures to cope with the extreme weather, including adjusting school timetables in France.
Ceiling Fan Sales Soar as Heatwave Hits
As a heatwave hits, ceiling fans have become increasingly popular as an alternative to traditional air conditioners, with sales of these fans exploding due to the high temperatures. The question arises as to which is more effective in combating heatwaves: ceiling fans or air conditioners.
Summer storm causes damage in Zurich - 16-year-old seriously injured
A severe thunderstorm hit Zurich on Friday evening, causing local flooding and damage. A 16-year-old was seriously injured and taken to the hospital in critical condition. The storm brought heavy rain and strong winds to the area.
Tropical storm outside PAR slightly intensifies on Saturday morning
A tropical storm located outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) has slightly intensified as of Saturday morning. The storm's current status and potential impact on nearby regions are being monitored. No further details on the storm's projected path or potential landfall have been provided. The public is advised to stay informed about weather updates and warnings from local authorities.
Typhoon-hit La Union farmers get insurance claims
Farmers in La Union who were affected by a typhoon have started receiving insurance claims to help them recover from the damage. The insurance claims are expected to provide financial assistance to the farmers who suffered losses due to the typhoon. The typhoon had caused significant damage to the agricultural sector in the region, and the insurance claims are a welcome relief for the affected farmers.
Severe thunderstorms threaten: Weekend remains hot – over 38 degrees possible
Germany is expected to experience a heatwave over the weekend, with temperatures possibly reaching over 38 degrees Celsius. The heat will be difficult to escape, whether at concerts, football matches, or searching for ways to cool down. There is no end in sight for the hot phase yet.
Mimaropa, Kalayaan Islands seen facing dry conditions by November
The Mimaropa region and Kalayaan Islands in the Philippines are expected to face dry conditions by November. This forecast suggests potential water shortages and impacts on agriculture in the area. The dry spell is part of the region's climate pattern, with November typically being a dry month. Preparations and water conservation efforts may be necessary to mitigate the effects of the dry conditions.
Quake-hit Davao Occidental shuts tourism sites
Davao Occidental has shut down its tourism sites due to the recent earthquake. The move aims to ensure the safety of tourists and residents alike. The earthquake has caused damage to infrastructure and disrupted daily life in the area. Authorities are working to assess the damage and provide aid to those affected.
Warning of extreme high water levels at Dörsbach in Rhineland-Palatinate
Due to high water levels, the Ritterspiele in Katzenelnbogen, Rhineland-Palatinate, have been canceled. A tent camp is being cleared, and evacuations are possible in exposed areas. The warning is for extreme high water levels at the Dörsbach river.
As Europe bakes, Berlin Zoo’s elephants and bears cool off
Berlin Zoo is using unusual methods to help its elephants and bears cool down as Europe experiences an intense heatwave. The zoo is utilizing 'ice bombs' and water showers to provide relief to the animals during the hot weather. This effort is part of a broader response to the heatwave affecting Europe
Heatwave nears 40C in France, forcing tourists to change routines
A heatwave is affecting France, with temperatures approaching 40C, forcing tourists and residents to alter their daily routines. The heatwave is part of a broader trend of extreme weather events impacting the region. Residents and visitors are adapting to the high temperatures, which are expected to continue.
A Taste of Hell: Commuters Suffocate in Parisian Transport During Heatwaves
As temperatures rise, many commuters in the Paris region are facing increasingly difficult journeys due to crowded trains, stifling heat, and frequent incidents. Despite this, operators claim to be investing in adapting the network to cope with the challenges.
Europe swelters as temperatures in France could hit 40C
A severe heatwave is affecting Western Europe, with temperatures expected to rise and potentially break records, particularly in France where temperatures could reach 40C. The heatwave is likely to continue in the coming days, causing sweltering conditions across the region.
Hospitals, schools... System D to protect against heatwaves
France is experiencing a severe heatwave, with 60 departments on orange alert, which is highlighting the vulnerability of hospitals and schools that are being forced to adapt with emergency measures. The current heatwave could be as intense as the one in 2003.
France tries to cope with second premature heatwave in less than a month
France is experiencing its second premature heatwave in less than a month, with temperatures expected to reach or exceed 40°C on June 21. The heatwave has led to the cancellation of Fete de la Musique celebrations in several municipalities and has prompted warnings of production curbs at three nuclear plants due to high temperatures on the Rhone and Garonne rivers.
Southside Festival interrupted due to bad weather
The Southside Festival was interrupted due to bad weather, with the venue being evacuated. Attendees were asked to return to their vehicles and offer rides to others if possible. The festival was stopped abruptly due to the weather conditions.
Heatwave: have temperature records been broken near you?
Temperature records are being approached or broken in several regions of France, including Grand Est, Île-de-France, and Centre-Val de Loire, amid a heatwave in June.
On court after climate warming: why France has so much trouble facing heatwaves
France is struggling to cope with heatwaves amid climate change, with budget cuts affecting ecological transition initiatives. The vice-president of the association of mayors in France expressed regret over the situation, noting that environmental budgets are often the first to be reduced when cost-cutting measures are implemented.
Heatwave and Electric Vehicles: Good Reflexes to Avoid Traps During High Temperatures
A heatwave is expected to hit France, and electric car drivers need to adapt their habits to preserve their battery and autonomy. The episode is part of a larger trend of severe weather events impacting regions globally, with forecasters warning of escalating climate risks ahead.
Heatwave: Differential Traffic Circulation Implemented in Paris
A heatwave has prompted the implementation of differential traffic circulation in Paris and its surrounding areas, effective Friday. The measures will be in place daily from 5:30 AM to 11:59 PM until further notice, as announced by the police prefecture.
Building Collapses in Marseille's Noailles Neighborhood
A building under renovation has collapsed in the Noailles neighborhood of Marseille, reviving memories of a similar tragedy in 2018 where two buildings collapsed on rue d'Aubagne, resulting in eight fatalities. The recent incident occurred just 300 meters away from the 2018 disaster site.
Heatwave: restrictive measures and differentiated traffic in Île-de-France
Due to a heatwave, restrictive measures and differentiated traffic circulation have been put in place in the Île-de-France region starting from June 19th. Only vehicles with a Crit'Air sticker of class 0, 1, or 2 will be allowed to circulate inside the A86 area until the decision is lifted.
Heatwave: 53 departments on orange alert
53 departments in France have been placed on orange heatwave alert, leading several municipalities to cancel the upcoming Fête de la Musique. The heatwave is expected to continue on Friday, affecting over 50 departments.