Super El Niño May Cause 450,000 Heat Deaths Globally
Super El Niño May Cause 450,000 Heat Deaths Globally
NG · Published Sep 23, 2026
A new report from the Climate Impact Lab warns that the ongoing super-sized El Niño could lead to devastating heat-related consequences worldwide.
The phenomenon, which began in June 2026, is expected to last until February 2027, driving global land temperatures up by 1.2°C (2.1°F) above normal.

Impact & Risks

The report identifies significant risks from El Niño-driven extreme heat, particularly in vulnerable regions. Nigeria is projected to suffer the highest number of heat-related deaths, with an estimated 31,400 fatalities. Other heavily impacted countries include Indonesia, Sudan, India, and Brazil. The United States ranks among the top 20 affected nations, with 3,500 projected deaths. In addition to heat-related fatalities, El Niño is expected to exacerbate other extreme weather events, such as fires, floods, and droughts. These impacts highlight the urgent need for preparedness and mitigation strategies to protect lives and reduce the severity of outcomes.

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