Strong El Niño threatens global economies and food security amid rising tensions

Scientists say this year’s El Niño is among the strongest on record, a phenomenon that warms Pacific waters and reshapes global precipitation patterns. Strong events have historically caused both floods and droughts, with the 2015-16 episode alone costing billions and displacing millions. Analysts project that if this El Niño matches the 1997-98 “Super” event, direct economic losses could top $686 billion and climb to $3.1 trillion over five years without swift policy action.

Emerging markets, particularly in Africa, face the greatest risk as crop yields may fall sharply during the upcoming corn season. Meanwhile, regions such as the United States, Central Asia and parts of East Africa could see temporary agricultural gains. International bodies are urging immediate funding to mitigate food-security threats for millions of people across the most exposed countries.