GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / RankWire.AI / – International health organizations are calling for increased preparedness measures as El Niño continues to strengthen and heighten the risks associated with climate change on public health. The World Meteorological Organization predicts that the event will reach very strong levels before the end of 2026. Significant concerns include extreme heat, drought, flooding, wildfire smoke, and deteriorating air quality. Variations in rainfall patterns could also place additional strain on food security, water infrastructure, and health services in vulnerable regions.
Forecast models indicate a near-certain probability that El Niño will persist through February 2027. The ongoing event is fueled by unusually warm waters across the tropical Pacific Ocean. Peak conditions are anticipated toward the end of 2026. El Niño influences global climate by modifying rainfall and temperature patterns, which can lead to droughts in some areas and increased flooding in others. During already hot seasons, heat exposure risks can also escalate.
Celeste Saulo, the secretary-general of WMO, emphasized the importance of stronger collaboration between meteorological agencies and health authorities. She underscored the necessity of integrating climate data into public health strategies and early warning systems. Urban areas are particularly vulnerable because their infrastructure tends to absorb and retain heat. The elderly, children, and outdoor workers are at higher risk during extended heatwaves. Those with pre-existing health issues may experience more severe effects when high temperatures persist.
Health Systems Confront Growing Climate-Induced Challenges
World Health Organization issued a comprehensive global health assessment on El Niño last September. This document advocates for proactive preparedness, ongoing surveillance, and early intervention by health authorities at national and regional levels. It highlights threats related to heatwaves, water security, infectious diseases, and nutrition. Seasonal climate forecasts can help health systems identify periods of heightened risk. The report also emphasizes the importance of monitoring vulnerable populations as rainfall and temperature patterns shift.
Warmer temperatures and altered rainfall can create conducive environments for various mosquito-borne illnesses. Among the key concerns are malaria, dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and Zika. Flooding and water disruptions can also increase the likelihood of cholera outbreaks in affected communities. Drought conditions can harm crops, diminish water availability, and deepen food insecurity. Currently, over 150 million individuals face acute food insecurity, adding pressure to regions impacted by climate shocks.
Rising Temperatures Compound Disease and Food Security Risks
Southern Africa, South America, and Australia will soon enter their warmer seasons as El Niño approaches its late-2026 peak. This timing increases focus on heatwaves, drought, wildfires, and air quality issues. Elevated temperatures can worsen health conditions such as cardiovascular, respiratory, kidney, and metabolic disorders. Heat also impacts mental health and hampers nighttime recovery, especially in poorly ventilated homes. Smoke from wildfires presents an additional respiratory risk, particularly for individuals with asthma and other lung conditions.
Climate and health agencies are intensifying efforts to link weather forecasts with public health decision-making processes. WMO is collaborating with partners to enhance climate services tailored for health officials and emergency responders. WHO maintains its focus on disease surveillance, preparedness, and rapid response efforts as El Niño unfolds. Both organizations see early warning systems as vital tools for reducing health risks. Their guidance underscores the importance of utilizing reliable climate information to support timely interventions in affected areas.