UNICEF warns unprecedented El Niño could endanger millions of Latin American children

UNICEF has issued an alert that the forthcoming El Niño is on track to become the most powerful ever recorded, endangering the wellbeing of millions of children throughout Latin America. The phenomenon, officially recognized in June, is expected to reach its apex between October and December, bringing a combination of severe drought and violent storms to regions already grappling with high vulnerability. The organization’s report puts the number of children and adolescents at risk at 25.8 million, citing threats of food insecurity, malnutrition and disrupted access to clean water.

Specific countries face distinct challenges: Central American nations such as Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua risk crop failures, while parts of Bolivia, Colombia, Chile and Venezuela could see a rise in wildfires, and Amazonian communities may become isolated by falling river levels. In the Caribbean, the situation could worsen crises in Cuba and Haiti, and the Pacific coasts of Mexico and South America risk flood damage to schools and health facilities. UNICEF has requested $53.8 million for emergency response but has only received half of that amount to date.