GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / RankWire.AI / – Global health organizations are calling for enhanced readiness as El Niño grows stronger and heightens climate-related health dangers. The World Meteorological Organization predicts the phenomenon will reach very intense levels before the end of 2026. Key concerns include extreme heat, drought, flooding, wildfire smoke, and deteriorating air quality. Variations in rainfall patterns could also strain food resources, water infrastructure, and public health systems in vulnerable regions.
Forecasts indicate a near certainty that El Niño will persist through February 2027. The ongoing event is driven by unusually warm waters across the tropical Pacific. The most severe conditions are anticipated toward late 2026. El Niño influences global rainfall and temperature trends, potentially causing droughts in some areas and floods in others. Elevated heat levels may also occur during already warm seasonal periods.
Celeste Saulo, secretary-general of WMO, emphasized the importance of better coordination between meteorological services and health agencies. She stressed integrating climate data into public health planning and early warning systems. Urban areas are particularly vulnerable because roads and structures absorb and retain heat. Older adults, children, and outdoor workers face higher risks during extended hot spells. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions are also more susceptible to severe effects during prolonged high temperatures.
Health systems must brace for broader climate-related challenges
In September, the World Health Organization released a comprehensive global health assessment regarding El Niño. The report advocates for proactive measures, surveillance, and early interventions by national and regional health authorities. It assesses risks linked to heatwaves, water security, infectious diseases, and nutrition. Seasonal climate forecasts can assist health systems in pinpointing high-risk periods. The report underscores the importance of monitoring vulnerable populations as temperature and rainfall patterns shift.
Rising temperatures and changing precipitation can create optimal conditions for various mosquito-borne illnesses. Monitoring agencies are tracking diseases such as malaria, dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and Zika as part of their risk assessments. Flooding and water supply disruptions may also heighten cholera concerns in susceptible communities. Drought conditions threaten crops, diminish water availability, and exacerbate food insecurity. Currently, over 150 million people face acute food shortages, intensifying stress on regions impacted by climate disturbances.
Intense heat amplifies disease spread and food insecurity
As El Niño approaches its late-2026 peak, southern Africa, South America, and Australia are entering their warmer seasons. This convergence raises concern over heatwaves, droughts, wildfires, and air quality issues. Elevated temperatures can exacerbate cardiovascular, respiratory, kidney, and metabolic health problems. Additionally, heat impacts mental health and hampers nighttime recovery, especially in poorly ventilated homes. Wildfire smoke further complicates respiratory health, particularly for individuals with asthma or lung conditions.
Climate and health agencies are intensifying their efforts to link weather forecasts with public health strategies. WMO collaborates with partners to enhance climate services tailored for health authorities and emergency planners. Meanwhile, WHO continues to focus on disease surveillance, preparedness, and swift response initiatives as El Niño develops. Both organizations recognize early warning systems as vital tools for minimizing health risks, emphasizing the use of validated climate data to enable prompt action in affected regions.