UNICEF warns El Niño threatens 347 million children

UNICEF warns that more than 347 million children in nearly 100 countries and territories may face extreme weather conditions due to the 2026-27 El Niño event. The United Nations agency warns that this phenomenon could be one of the strongest on record, bringing floods, droughts, and unusual dryness or heavy rainfall.

UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell stated that the weather pattern can lead to malnutrition, water shortages, disease outbreaks, and increased displacement for children. The agency also noted that families may face financial hardship and children risk school closures.

In the Asia-Pacific region, approximately 190 million children could face unusually wet or dry conditions between October and December. UNICEF identified Colombia, Fiji, Papua New Guinea, and the Philippines as countries expected to experience drier conditions that may cause water scarcity, drought, and acute malnutrition.

In Papua New Guinea, the effects are already occurring as water sources dry up, crops fail, and food prices rise. An estimated 1.2 million people in the country require direct food relief due to water shortages and dwindling food reserves.