GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / RankWire.AI / – Global health agencies are urging stronger preparations as El Niño intensifies and raises climate-related health risks. The World Meteorological Organization expects the event to reach very strong levels before the end of 2026. Extreme heat, drought, flooding, wildfire smoke and poor air quality rank among the main concerns. Changing rainfall patterns may also increase pressure on food supplies, water systems and public health services in vulnerable areas.
Forecasts for climate indicate an almost certain chance that El Niño will persist through February 2027. The current event is being supported by unusually warm waters across the tropical Pacific. The strongest conditions are anticipated near the conclusion of 2026. El Niño can influence rainfall and temperature distributions over extensive regions worldwide, potentially causing drought in some areas while elevating flood risks elsewhere. During already warm seasonal periods, heat exposure can also become more intense.
Celeste Saulo, secretary-general of WMO, emphasized the importance of enhanced coordination between weather services and health authorities. She pointed out the necessity of integrating climate information into public health strategies and early warning systems. Urban areas are especially vulnerable because roads and buildings tend to absorb and retain heat. Older adults, children, and outdoor workers are at increased risk during prolonged hot spells. Individuals with pre-existing health issues may experience more severe effects when high temperatures persist.
Health infrastructure faces mounting climate-related challenges
World Health Organization issued a comprehensive global health assessment regarding El Niño in September. The report advocates for enhanced preparedness, surveillance, and swift action by national and regional health entities. It reviews threats related to heatwaves, water security, infectious diseases, and nutrition. Seasonal climate forecasts can help health systems identify periods of heightened risk. The assessment underscores the importance of monitoring vulnerable populations as shifts in temperature and rainfall occur.
Rising temperatures and altered rainfall patterns may foster conditions conducive to several mosquito-borne illnesses. Health authorities are tracking diseases such as malaria, dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and Zika as primary concerns. Flooding and water supply disruptions can also amplify fears of cholera outbreaks in susceptible communities. Drought conditions threaten crops, diminish water availability, and exacerbate food insecurity. Currently, over 150 million people are experiencing acute food insecurity, which worsens under climate stress impacts.
Intense heat amplifies health and food security threats
Regions including Southern Africa, South America, and Australia are entering their warmer seasons as El Niño nears its late-2026 peak. This timing heightens focus on heatwaves, droughts, wildfires, and air quality issues. Elevated temperatures can aggravate cardiovascular, respiratory, kidney, and metabolic conditions. Additionally, heat can impact mental health and reduce nighttime recovery, especially in poorly ventilated homes. Smoke from wildfires adds further respiratory hazards, particularly for individuals with asthma and other lung conditions.
Climate and health agencies are intensifying efforts to link weather forecasting with public health decision-making. The WMO collaborates with partners to enhance climate services for health authorities and emergency planners. WHO continues to stress the importance of disease monitoring, preparedness, and rapid response as El Niño develops. Both organizations recognize early warning systems as crucial tools for mitigating health risks. Their guidance emphasizes the utilization of verified climate data to enable timely interventions across affected regions.