Powerful El Niño Could Push 49 Million More People Into Acute Hunger

Extreme heat, drought and disrupted rainfall are converging with conflict and high input costs to deepen food insecurity in vulnerable regions.

Aug 31, 2026 - 07:30
Updated: Aug 31, 2026 - 09:24
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Powerful El Niño Could Push 49 Million More People Into Acute Hunger
A farmer examines drought-damaged crops as a strong El Niño threatens food security. Reuters photograph.

A powerful El Niño could push nearly 49 million additional people into acute food insecurity by the end of 2027, according to a World Food Programme warning cited by Reuters.

Central America, Southern Africa, South America and the Caribbean face heightened risk from drought, delayed monsoons and erratic rainfall. Conflict-related disruption to grain, fuel and fertiliser supplies is compounding the climate pressure.

Early action should combine targeted food support with drought-resistant agriculture, water planning and stronger regional trade systems. Waiting for harvest failure turns a climate warning into a humanitarian emergency.

Reporting basis: NewsRena Editorial Desk review of reporting by Reuters, citing the World Food Programme.

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