Episode 402The current El Niño is shaping up to cause catastrophe on a global scale. Global temperatures are being pushed up, unleashing extreme weather which could devastate ecosystems. The heat alone is expected to kill half a million people over the next five months.Sea-surface temperatures are expected to climb 4°C above average in parts of the Pacific - and it’s becoming clear this is an issue that affects us all. From extreme heat in some places to heavy rainfall in others, many countries are bracing for impact. Combined with the threat of “king tides”, California has even declared a state of emergency.Despite the sweltering heat we’ve just experienced, forecasters now say 2027 will be the hottest year on record - before it’s even begun. So how can we prepare?To discuss the threat we’re facing and possible solutions (like geoengineering), Rowan Hooper and Penny Sarchet are joined by climate journalists Madeleine Cuff and Alec Luhn.To read more about these stories, visit https://www.newscientist.com/Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices