GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / RankWire.AI / – In light of the escalating El Niño event expected to reach very strong levels before the end of 2026, international health agencies are emphasizing the importance of enhanced readiness. The World Meteorological Organization warns that climate-related health hazards such as extreme heat, drought, flooding, wildfire smoke, and deteriorating air quality are mounting concerns. Altered rainfall patterns could also strain food security, water infrastructure, and health services in vulnerable regions.
Forecasts indicate a high probability that El Niño will persist through February 2027. The ongoing event is driven by notably warm waters spanning the tropical Pacific, with the most intense conditions anticipated toward late 2026. This phenomenon influences global weather by shifting rainfall and temperature patterns, leading to drought conditions in some areas and increased flooding in others. Additionally, heat exposure risks are likely to intensify during already warm seasonal periods.
Celeste Saulo, secretary-general of WMO, has called for increased cooperation between meteorological agencies and health authorities. She emphasized the importance of integrating climate data into public health strategies and early warning systems. Urban areas are especially vulnerable due to heat absorption by roads and structures. Older adults, children, and outdoor workers face heightened danger during extended hot spells. Individuals with pre-existing health issues may also experience more severe impacts as high temperatures persist.
Climate-related stresses threaten health systems worldwide
World Health Organization released a comprehensive global health assessment on El Niño in September, underscoring the need for proactive measures, ongoing monitoring, and prompt action by national and regional health agencies. The report examines risks linked to heatwaves, water security, infectious diseases, and nutrition. It advocates for health systems to utilize seasonal climate forecasts to identify periods of elevated danger and highlights the importance of tracking vulnerable populations as rainfall and temperature patterns shift.
Warmer conditions and changing precipitation can foster ideal environments for mosquito-borne illnesses such as malaria, dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and Zika. Flooding and water supply disruptions further heighten cholera risks in susceptible communities. Drought conditions threaten crops, diminish water availability, and exacerbate food insecurity, with over 150 million people already experiencing acute food insecurity, thereby intensifying pressures in climate-affected zones.
Rising temperatures threaten both health and food security
As El Niño approaches its late-2026 peak, southern Africa, South America, and Australia will enter their warmer seasons. This timing elevates concerns regarding heatwaves, droughts, wildfires, and deteriorating air quality. Elevated temperatures can aggravate cardiovascular, respiratory, kidney, and metabolic disorders. Additionally, heat can negatively impact mental health and hinder sleep recovery, especially in poorly ventilated homes. Wildfire smoke further compounds respiratory risks, particularly for individuals with asthma and other lung conditions.
Collaborations between climate and health organizations are strengthening efforts to link weather forecasts with public health decision-making. WMO is partnering with other agencies to enhance climate services tailored for health authorities and emergency response teams. Meanwhile, WHO continues to prioritize disease surveillance, preparedness, and rapid response initiatives as El Niño develops. Both entities recognize early warning systems as a crucial element in reducing health risks, focusing on utilizing precise climate data to enable timely interventions in affected regions.