Assistant Director of Papua New Guinea (PNG) National Weather Services (NWS), Kasis Inape, has said weather forecasts from November onwards show that much of the country will receive rainfall; however, this rain does not mean that El Niño is over.

Inape said that while the rain provides a relief for the country, it is not sufficient to replenish soil moisture for agriculture, fill up dams and rivers. He added some parts of the country will receive rainfall, except Manus and greater parts of New Guinea islands, including the Autonomous Region of Bougainville (AROB).

“Our forecasts from November onwards show that much of the country will receive above-average rainfall except for Manus and greater parts of New Guinea islands, including AROB. Although this rain is a welcome relief for the country, it is not sufficient to truly replenish the soil's moisture for agriculture and fill the dams and rivers, and dried-up creeks to their full potential," he said.

He said people can celebrate the rain that is coming, but it would be a short one.

“People have every right to rejoice and celebrate that the rain is coming; unfortunately, this wet season will be shortened due to the prevailing El Niño conditions. This rain does not mean that El Niño is over. We are at the peak of the El Niño and will continue to at least until March next year.” He said.

Furthermore, World Metrological Organization (WMO) during Pacific Regional Climate Centre Network, had urged PNG communities to prepare for possible continued dry conditions, higher temperatures, and water shortages.

According to the Pacific RCC Network, the current El Niño event is expected to strengthen further, with strong to very strong conditions likely during January to March 2027 and potentially continuing into March–May 2027.

Warmer-than-normal air temperatures are expected across much of PNG and the surrounding region.

Higher temperatures combined with reduced rainfall may increase evaporation, dry out soils and vegetation, and worsen existing drought conditions.

Farmers and rural communities are urged to prepare for possible disruptions to crop production, particularly in areas dependent on regular rainfall.

Reduced soil moisture, prolonged dry spells and local temperature extremes may affect food gardens and agricultural livelihoods.

Communities are encouraged to protect existing water sources, practice water conservation, and prepare alternative safe water supplies where possible.