Australians warned to brace for a ‘Godzilla’ El Nino and hot, dry summer

Australians should brace for an intense summer as scientists around the globe warn of a ‘Godzilla’ El Nino effect.

It’s not expected to hit Australia for another couple of months, but the strengthening El Nino event could bring a hot, dry summer season.

Research Professor Bill Laurance said the term was coined to warn people to ‘get ready’.

‘That was a term a NASA scientist used to say this isn’t your average, run of the mill El Nino, this is a real fire-breathing monster,’ he said.

Professor Laurance explained to Neil Mitchell there was some conjecture among forecasters and climatologists as to the intensity of the weather event.

Some El Ninos have been associated with worsening droughts and intense bushfire seasons.

‘In places like eastern Australia and Victoria, it’s going to depend more on how this Indian ocean temperature tips,’ he said.

‘The bottom line is, if it tips the wrong way, there’s always this potential for really serious events.’

LISTEN: James Cook University Research Professor Bill Laurance on 3AW Mornings