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Scientists say the El Ni帽o weather pattern has started and this one is potentially so strong that it could have devastating effects in many parts of the world. So how does El Ni帽o work exactly? And what鈥檚 the connection with climate change?

El Ni帽o starts when water temperatures rise near the Pacific coast of South America, but the impact on weather is felt around the globe. Some regions are more likely to experience severe droughts or more powerful storms; others could face the threat of severe flooding.

This 鈥淪uper鈥� El Ni帽o is likely to add 0.2 or 0.3 degrees to the global temperature. When added to the impact of climate change, scientists say the world could be headed for a new heat record in 2027.

In this edition of The Climate Question, hosts Graihagh Jackson and Jordan Dunbar chat to Mark Maslin, Professor of Earth System Science at University College, London, about what might happen and how the world can prepare.

Got a question or comment? You can email the team: theclimatequestion@bbc.com

Producer: Grace Braddock
Sound Mix: Mike Regaard and Tom Brignell
Editor: Simon Watts

Picture Credit: Reuters