El Niño Intensifies, Raising Concerns for Africa and Beyond
El Niño Intensifies, Raising Concerns for Africa and Beyond
Africa · Published Sep 9, 2026
A strong El Niño event is developing in the Pacific and is expected to intensify by the end of
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has confirmed that this El Niño could become one of the strongest on record, with a nearly 100% chance of persisting through February

Impact & Risks

El Niño's effects are expected to vary across regions. In East Africa, excessive rainfall could lead to flooding, crop damage, and displacement, while improving water availability in some areas. In Southern Africa, the risk of agricultural drought could worsen food insecurity, affecting millions. Health risks, including cholera and malaria, are also anticipated to rise due to extreme weather conditions. Vulnerable communities already facing climate-related challenges are likely to be the hardest hit.

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