El Nino brings health risks to global communities
Researchers warn that the powerful El Niño event expected in late 2026 and early 2027 will trigger severe droughts, flooding and wildfires worldwide while threatening public health.
Rising global weather hazards
Communities around the world are preparing for one of the most powerful El Niños on record. Southern Africa faces a rising risk of severe drought affecting the 2026-27 growing season in key farming regions. The Horn of Africa faces increased chances of floods and illnesses spread by mosquitoes due to wetter weather conditions there. Southeast Asia faces worsening drought that is igniting forest fires while depleting water resources. Heavy rains in Chile during October caused mudslides, leaving debris for residents to remove.
Health impacts of disasters
Exposure to flooding, wildfire and ecosystem changes links with elevated risks of illnesses and psychological distress. Infections like hepatitis, cryptosporidium, fungal diseases and enduring health issues may result from floodwater. Drought can lead to poor air quality and malnutrition in some places. Disasters also keep people from getting essential health care and disrupt their livelihoods.
Vulnerable populations at risk
A minimum of 2.5 million Americans depend on electricity-driven home medical devices including ventilators and oxygen concentrators. Nearly 78,000 of these individuals receive dialysis at home to help their kidneys function. If electricity fails or water supply is interrupted, patients face potential loss of essential medical treatment. Early warnings about El Niño disaster risks help these groups prepare well in advance.
Reported by one outlet
Only one outlet has published this. Nothing here has been checked against a second report, so read it as that outlet's account and follow the link below for the original.
Reported by
1 independent outlet. Headline as published. Links open the original report.