Global Drought Risk Intensified by Strong El Niño, Threatening Food, Water, and Economies

A new analysis from the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) and a World Meteorological Organization (WMO) outlook warn that drought is now a constant, economy-wide risk. This risk is exacerbated by a strong El Niño phenomenon, which is expected to intensify and persist through February 2027. The El Niño is amplifying existing food insecurity, displacement, conflict, and economic pressures by intensifying risks of drought, floods, and extreme heat, and significantly altering rainfall and temperature patterns globally.