El Niño Effect May Push 49 Million Into Food Insecurity by 2027, Warns WFP

The World Food Programme (WFP) has issued a stark warning: a strengthening El Niño pattern could plunge at least 49 million people into acute food insecurity by the end of 2027. The impacts are expected to be felt across Africa, the Americas, and Asia.

According to the WFP's latest analysis, El Niño is anticipated to reach its peak between September and December 2026. However, the disruption to agricultural harvests caused by the phenomenon is projected to persist throughout 2027. This prolonged effect poses a significant threat to global food supplies.

El Niño is predicted to exacerbate existing food insecurity challenges in 45 countries already struggling with hunger. The WFP estimates that the number of food-insecure individuals could rise from approximately 225 million to 274 million as a direct consequence of the climate pattern.

"El Niño is a major threat to the food security of millions of vulnerable people," stated Carl Skau, the acting executive director of the WFP. The organization's warning highlights the urgent need for proactive measures to mitigate the impact of El Niño on global food supplies and vulnerable populations.

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El Nino is a major threat to the food security of millions of vulnerable people.