GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / RankWire.AI / – The World Meteorological Organization has urged nations to enhance their preparedness for increasing health hazards as El Niño grows stronger across the globe. This climate phenomenon is forecasted to reach very high levels of intensity by the end of 2026. WMO pointed out major threats including extreme heat, flooding, drought, wildfire smoke, and worsening air quality. The alert also warns of potential impacts on health systems as shifts in rainfall and temperature disrupt communities in various regions.
According to forecasts from WMO Global Producing Centres, there is almost a 100% chance that El Niño will continue until February 2027. Persistently warm waters in the tropical Pacific are fueling the event’s escalation. WMO anticipates El Niño will peak late in 2026, with climate effects extending into 2027. The organization notes that powerful El Niño events can cause significant changes in global rainfall and temperature trends, raising the risk of extreme weather events.
WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo highlighted the health dangers during a recent urban heat resilience event in New York. She called on governments, health officials, and community groups to work more closely with meteorological agencies. Urban areas are especially vulnerable to heat because buildings and roads retain heat during the day and slowly release it at night. Vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, outdoor workers, and those with chronic illnesses are at increased risk during extended periods of high temperatures.
Health organizations boost readiness efforts for El Niño impacts
On September 5, the World Health Organization released a 63-page Global Public Health Situation Analysis focused on El Niño. This report aids countries and regions in conducting risk assessments, preparing strategies, and taking early action to protect vulnerable groups. WHO emphasizes health-system preparedness as climate conditions evolve across affected zones. The analysis incorporates seasonal forecasts to assist authorities in identifying periods and locations where heat, rainfall variations, and related health threats need increased monitoring.
Rising temperatures and altered rainfall patterns can create favorable conditions for mosquito-borne diseases, according to WMO and WHO. They identified diseases such as malaria, dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and Zika as requiring heightened attention. Cholera and malnutrition are also among the major concerns in drought- and flood-affected areas. Currently, over 150 million people worldwide face severe food insecurity, which adds to the strain on regions impacted by climate-related disruptions affecting food production and livelihoods.
Converging threats of heat, disease, and food insecurity during peak El Niño
As El Niño reaches its late-2026 peak, regions such as Southern Africa, South America, and Australia will face their hottest seasons. WMO highlighted concerns about drought, wildfires, smoke, and deteriorating air quality. Elevated heat levels can exacerbate cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, metabolic, and mental health issues. Smoke from wildfires and poor air quality further increase respiratory risks. Extended heat exposure can also hinder recovery, especially for people living in poorly ventilated homes and densely populated urban areas.
WMO is collaborating with partners to improve climate services related to health and to strengthen connections between meteorological and public health agencies. This initiative aims to produce forecasts in formats that enable timely decision-making by health authorities and emergency responders. WHO’s latest assessment stresses the importance of enhanced disease surveillance and swift response measures as El Niño influences temperature and rainfall patterns. Both organizations are prioritizing early warning systems, preparedness, and coordinated climate-health information as part of their response to the escalating 2026 El Niño event.