Super El Niño Could Push Almost 50 Million More People Into Acute Hunger by 2028: WFP
Super El Niño Could Push Almost 50 Million More People Into Acute Hunger by 2028: WFP
This number will be added to the 225 million already facing food insecurity across 45 countries due to the rapidly developing El Niño weather system before the end of 2027, the UN World Food Program has warned.
Peak in 2026, Impact Through 2027
The so-called "super El Niño" is expected to peak between September and December 2026. However, its damaging effects on harvest cycles will stretch well into 2027. Southern Africa is among the regions likely to be hit hardest.
East and Southern Africa: A 26% Spike in Hunger
East and Southern Africa face substantial threats, with more than 18 million people projected to see their food security deteriorate—a sharp 26% increase. Southern African countries are especially vulnerable because many households rely on rain-fed subsistence farming, and the upcoming rainy seasons are critical for food production.
West and Central Africa: Nearly 6 Million More Affected
West and Central Africa are also at significant risk, with food insecurity projected to rise by 12%, affecting nearly 6 million additional people. Nations already grappling with poverty, conflict, economic instability, and repeated weather extremes will bear the brunt of the impact.
Early Action: Pre-Disaster Aid
In response, the WFP has activated anticipatory actions in South Sudan, Chad, Mauritania, and Uganda. So far, they have provided over $14 million in pre-disaster assistance to 500,000 people.
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