Huge El Niño projected to cause 450,000 deaths in next six months
New report predicts a heavy toll from Nigeria to the US – and comes on top of existing impacts of the climate crisis
TL;DR
- Over 450,000 deaths are projected globally in the next six months due to the additional heat from the super El Niño.
- This toll is in addition to deaths already caused by the climate crisis, and will affect regions from Indonesia to India, Nigeria to the US.
- Droughts, wildfires, and flooding associated with El Niño are expected to cause further deaths.
- Measures like improved heat forecasts, cooling centers, increased medical staffing, and protections for outdoor workers can help save lives.
- The current El Niño is breaking temperature records and is described by scientists as "mind-blowing" and "Godzilla-level."
- Tropical nations like Nigeria, Indonesia, Sudan, India, and Brazil are projected to be the most affected in the coming months.
- The US is among the top 20 most affected nations, with 3,500 projected additional heat deaths.
- The El Niño is seen as a preview of temperatures projected for 20 years from now due to the climate crisis.
- El Niño's impacts are also expected to affect food supplies, potentially leading to acute hunger for millions.
- The event is unfolding on top of a warmer climate system, leading to unprecedented heat extremes and consequences for health, food security, and water stress.