El Niño reaches record intensity in tropical Pacific, Copernicus warns of pre-peak exceptional strength

El Niño has reached record-breaking sea surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific as of September, confirmed by EU climate monitors and Copernicus. Forecasts indicate a potential for unprecedented intensity, with oceanic temperature anomalies up to 3.7°C, though this projection remains preliminary and subject to model uncertainty. The event is exhibiting exceptional strength prior to its peak, suggesting a stronger event than previously modeled.