The World Food Programme (WFP) has raised concerns over the potential humanitarian impact of a powerful El Niño weather pattern, warning that worsening climate conditions could significantly increase global hunger. The UN agency says millions more people could face acute food insecurity if the phenomenon intensifies over the coming months.
The World Food Programme (WFP) has warned that a very strong El Niño weather event could push nearly 49 million more people into acute food insecurity across vulnerable regions by the end of next year.
Editorial Insight
Key Highlights
WFP warns 49 million more people could face acute food insecurity.
There is an 81% chance of a very strong El Niño, according to the UN agency.
Pacific sea surface temperatures are at their highest since 1982.
El Niño can trigger droughts, delayed monsoons and erratic rainfall worldwide.
Global acute food insecurity could rise to 274 million people.
In its latest assessment, the UN agency said there is an 81 per cent probability of a very strong El Niño developing, with Pacific Ocean sea surface temperatures reaching their highest levels since at least 1982. If confirmed, it could become the strongest El Niño event since 1950.
El Niño is a naturally occurring climate phenomenon marked by the warming of Pacific Ocean waters. It disrupts global weather patterns and is often associated with drought in Southern Africa, delayed monsoons in parts of Asia, and extreme or erratic rainfall in other regions.
According to the WFP, the number of people facing acute food insecurity worldwide could rise to 274 million, placing additional pressure on humanitarian agencies and governments already dealing with food shortages and climate-related challenges.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
Climate-driven weather events such as El Niño can severely disrupt agriculture, water supplies and food production, particularly in vulnerable regions. The WFP's warning highlights the growing need for preparedness and international cooperation to prevent a worsening global food crisis.
The agency stressed the importance of early preparedness and coordinated international action to reduce the humanitarian impact of the expected weather event.
