GENEVA, SWITZERLAND / RankWire.AI / – In a recent statement from World Meteorological Organization, authorities worldwide are urged to take proactive steps to address increasing health hazards linked to El Niño, which is expected to strengthen further. The climate phenomenon is projected to reach a very strong intensity by the end of 2026. WMO pointed out key threats including extreme heat, floods, droughts, wildfire smoke, and declining air quality. The warning underscores potential impacts on healthcare systems as shifting rainfall and temperature patterns influence communities across various regions.
Forecast data from WMO Global Producing Centres indicates a near 100% chance that El Niño will last through February 2027. The persistent warm waters across the tropical Pacific continue to fuel the event’s escalation. WMO anticipates the peak of El Niño toward late 2026, with climate effects extending into 2027. The organization emphasized that strong El Niño events can markedly alter global rainfall and temperature trends, heightening the risk of extreme weather events.
During an urban heat resilience forum in New York this week, WMO Secretary-General Celeste Saulo stressed the health dangers posed by the phenomenon. She called on governments, health sectors, and community groups to collaborate more effectively with meteorological agencies. Urban areas are particularly vulnerable because heat absorbed by buildings and roads during the day is released slowly at night. Vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, outdoor workers, and individuals with chronic conditions face increased exposure during extended periods of high temperatures.
Health organizations enhance El Niño preparedness efforts
On September 5, the World Health Organization published a 63-page Global Public Health Situation Analysis focused on El Niño. This document supports risk assessments at national and regional levels, as well as preparedness and early intervention strategies for vulnerable groups. WHO emphasizes health-system readiness as climate conditions shift across affected zones. Seasonal forecasts are utilized to help authorities identify critical periods and locations where heat, rainfall alterations, and related health threats warrant closer monitoring.
According to WMO and WHO, rising temperatures and changing rainfall patterns can foster conditions conducive to mosquito-borne diseases. Malaria, dengue, chikungunya, yellow fever, and Zika are among the illnesses identified for increased vigilance. Cholera and malnutrition are also major concerns, especially in areas experiencing droughts or floods. Over 150 million individuals are already facing acute food insecurity worldwide, adding to the strain on regions affected by climate-induced disruptions to food production and livelihoods.
Heatwaves, disease outbreaks, and food insecurity converge
Southern Africa, South America, and Australia are approaching their hottest seasonal periods as El Niño peaks in late 2026. WMO expressed concern that this overlap could lead to increased drought, wildfires, smoke, and deteriorating air quality. Elevated temperatures can exacerbate cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, metabolic, and mental health issues. Wildfire smoke and poor air quality further elevate respiratory risks, while sustained heat can hamper recovery, especially for individuals in poorly ventilated homes and dense urban environments.
In response, WMO is collaborating with partners to improve climate services related to health and strengthen cooperation between meteorological and public health authorities. The goal is to provide forecasts in formats that enable timely decision-making by health agencies and emergency response teams. WHO’s latest assessment underscores the importance of enhanced disease surveillance and rapid response mechanisms as El Niño influences temperature and rainfall patterns. Both organizations have prioritized early warning, preparedness, and the integration of climate and health data as critical components in their response to the intensifying 2026 El Niño event.