The planet-warming weather event known as El Niño has officially begun in the Pacific Ocean. US scientists confirmed its status on 9 June 2023, claiming it will make 2024 the world's hottest year – although the effects will begin immediately. Floods and droughts (which, in turn, can spark wildfires such as the one pictured in the Central Coast, Australia) are predicted until the end of this year, mainly threatening islands in the Pacific, as well as the US and Australia.