GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / RankWire.AI / – The intensification of El Niño is escalating health risks worldwide, prompting urgent calls for enhanced readiness from global health organizations. The World Meteorological Organization forecasts the phenomenon to reach very strong levels by the end of 2026. Major concerns include extreme heat, drought, flooding, wildfire smoke, and deteriorating air quality. Variations in rainfall patterns are also expected to put additional strain on food production, water resources, and healthcare services in vulnerable regions.
Forecasts indicate a high likelihood that El Niño will persist into February 2027, with unusually warm ocean temperatures across the tropical Pacific underpinning the current event. The most intense conditions are anticipated toward late 2026. This climate phenomenon has the capacity to modify rainfall and temperature patterns over large parts of the globe, potentially causing droughts in some areas while elevating flood risks elsewhere. Seasonal heat levels are also expected to increase during already warm periods.
Celeste Saulo, secretary-general of WMO, emphasized the importance of enhanced collaboration between meteorological services and health agencies. She pointed out the necessity of integrating climate data into public health strategies and early warning systems. Urban areas are especially vulnerable because infrastructure like roads and buildings tend to absorb and retain heat. Groups at higher risk include the elderly, children, and outdoor workers, who face greater dangers during extended hot spells. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions may experience amplified health impacts during sustained high temperatures.
Health infrastructure faces mounting climate-related challenges
In September, the World Health Organization released a comprehensive global health assessment focused on El Niño. The report advocates for proactive measures, enhanced surveillance, and prompt interventions by health authorities at national and regional levels. It considers threats linked to heatwaves, water scarcity, infectious diseases, and nutrition. Seasonal climate forecasts are recommended for health systems to better anticipate periods of heightened risk, and the report underscores the importance of monitoring vulnerable populations as rainfall and temperature patterns shift.
Warmer temperatures and altered precipitation can foster conditions suitable for mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and Zika. Additionally, flooding and water supply disruptions pose risks of cholera outbreaks in exposed communities. Drought conditions threaten agriculture, diminish water availability, and exacerbate food insecurity, with over 150 million individuals already experiencing acute food insecurity, intensifying the burden on regions impacted by climate disturbances.
Rising heat exacerbates health and food supply concerns
As El Niño peaks towards the end of 2026, southern Africa, South America, and Australia will enter their hottest seasons. This timing heightens risks related to heatwaves, drought, wildfires, and air quality deterioration. Elevated temperatures can worsen cardiovascular, respiratory, kidney, and metabolic conditions. They also impact mental health and disrupt sleep, especially in homes with poor ventilation. Wildfire smoke further compounds respiratory health issues, particularly for people with asthma and other lung problems.
Climate and health authorities are intensifying efforts to link weather forecasts with public health strategies. WMO collaborates with partners to enhance climate services tailored for health agencies and emergency response teams. WHO continues to focus on disease surveillance, preparedness, and swift response initiatives as El Niño develops. Both organizations underscore the importance of early warning systems as vital tools for mitigating health risks, emphasizing the use of reliable climate data to enable timely interventions in affected regions.