GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / RankWire.AI / – Global health organizations are calling for enhanced preparedness as El Niño continues to strengthen, elevating climate-related health dangers. The World Meteorological Organization forecasts that the phenomenon will reach very strong intensity before the end of 2026. Major concerns include extreme heat, drought, flooding, wildfire smoke, and deteriorating air quality. Variations in rainfall patterns are also likely to strain food resources, water infrastructure, and healthcare systems in vulnerable regions.
Forecasts indicate a near certainty that El Niño will persist through February 2027. The current event is fueled by abnormally warm waters across the tropical Pacific, with the most intense conditions expected late in 2026. These shifts in rainfall and temperature can significantly influence weather worldwide, causing droughts in some areas and heightened flood risks in others. Additionally, heat exposure may intensify during periods already characterized by high temperatures.
Celeste Saulo, Secretary-General of WMO, emphasized the importance of strengthened cooperation between meteorological services and health agencies. She pointed out the necessity of integrating climate data into public health planning and early warning mechanisms. Urban environments are particularly susceptible, as infrastructure and roads tend to trap and retain heat. Vulnerable groups such as seniors, children, and outdoor workers face increased risks during prolonged hot spells. Those with pre-existing health conditions can also experience amplified adverse effects when high temperatures persist.
Health infrastructure under mounting climate-related stress
In September, the World Health Organization issued a comprehensive global health assessment concerning El Niño. This document advocates for proactive preparedness, surveillance, and prompt interventions by national and regional health authorities. It assesses dangers linked to heatwaves, water security issues, infectious diseases, and nutrition crises. Seasonal climate forecasts can help health systems identify high-risk periods, while monitoring vulnerable populations remains crucial amid changing rainfall and temperature patterns.
The combination of rising temperatures and shifting rainfall patterns fosters ideal conditions for several mosquito-borne illnesses. Malaria, dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and Zika are among the primary concerns. Flooding and disruptions in water supplies also raise fears of cholera outbreaks in affected communities. Drought conditions threaten agricultural yields, diminish water availability, and exacerbate food insecurity, which already impacts over 150 million individuals facing acute hunger, especially in regions hit by climate shocks.
Heatwaves compound health and food supply challenges
As El Niño peaks in late 2026, countries in Southern Africa, South America, and Australia are approaching their hotter seasons. This timing raises concerns about increased heat, drought, wildfires, and deteriorating air quality. Elevated temperatures can worsen cardiovascular, respiratory, kidney, and metabolic health issues, while also impacting mental well-being and nighttime rest, especially in poorly ventilated homes. Wildfire smoke introduces additional respiratory risks, particularly for individuals with asthma or other lung conditions.
Health and climate agencies are intensifying their efforts to link weather forecasts with public health planning. The WMO collaborates with partners to enhance climate services tailored for health authorities and emergency responders. The WHO continues to prioritize disease surveillance, preparedness, and rapid response strategies as El Niño develops. Both organizations recognize early warning systems as essential tools to mitigate health risks, emphasizing the importance of utilizing verified climate data to enable timely interventions in affected communities.