BENGALURU: Variations in atmospheric moisture can influence winds blowing in the higher reaches of the atmosphere, according to a study by Indian Institute of Science (IISc) researchers.

The powerful El Nino continues to intensify in the Pacific and is now the strongest since the record-breaking 1997-98 event, the Bureau of Meteorology said.

The Australian Bureau of Meteorology said the recently emerged El Nino is now the strongest such event in nearly 20 years.

The hyperactive hurricane season in the Pacific has jumped up another gear, spawning a record trio of category 4 strength tropical storms that will give the powerful El Nino event yet another boost

The most populous regions of Australia can expect another year of above-average fire risk as the long-term decline in cool season rainfall combines with the strengthening El Nino in the Pacific.

Japan will see mostly average to warmer weather from September to November, the official forecaster said on Tuesday.

The weatherman confirms a big El Nino will hit Kenya but says it is unlikely to unleash the fury and destruction of 1997.