El Niño Raises Health Risks in India with Heat and Mosquito-Borne Diseases
El Niño Raises Health Risks in India with Heat and Mosquito-Borne Diseases
IN · Published Sep 11, 2026
India is facing heightened public health risks as the El Niño climate phenomenon intensifies, leading to drier-than-normal conditions and above-average temperatures across South Asia during August to October
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), these conditions are exacerbating the spread of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and malaria, as well as increasing cases of heat-related illnesses. Delhi has already reported a sharp rise in dengue cases, with 311 cases recorded by 29 August 2026, compared to 40 in July. Malaria cases have also surged, highlighting the dual burden of heat stress and vector-borne diseases. The WHO categorises heat stress as a very high-risk consequence of El Niño, while diseases like dengue and malaria are classified as high-risk under both dry and wet conditions.

Impact & Risks

The combination of extreme heat and altered rainfall patterns is creating significant health challenges for vulnerable populations in India. Outdoor workers, individuals with pre-existing health conditions, and residents of densely populated urban areas are particularly at risk. Heat stress can lead to dehydration, heatstroke, and complications in cardiovascular, respiratory, and renal health. Meanwhile, changes in water storage and stagnant water from sudden rainfall are increasing mosquito breeding, driving up cases of dengue and malaria. The WHO warns that these risks are amplified by weak health systems and inadequate disease surveillance, potentially leading to severe public health crises.

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