El Niño is a natural climate pattern where sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean become unusually warm, coming with trade winds that weaken or reverse direction. During an El Niño, warm water flows back towards the central and eastern Pacific Ocean, stopping or slowing the rise of cold water, a condition climate experts say happens every two to seven years and lasts between nine and 18 months. Among its current disruptions, the weather condition has changed global atmospheric pressure and jet streams, bringing heavy rain and floods to parts of the world, including South America and the southern United States while causing droughts in Australia, Indonesia, and parts of South Asia.
El Niño releases extra heat from the ocean into the atmosphere, often pushing global average temperatures higher. Available data shows that ‘Super El Niño,’ which occurred from 1877-1878 triggered a 16-month global drought and multi-year famines, killing an estimated 50 million people, about three percent of the world’s population then. In its Seasonal Climate Prediction Update for August 2026 and the August-SeptemberOctober 2026 Rainfall Forecast, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) announced that “analysis of the most recent ocean observations confirms the onset of a strong El Niño event in 2026.” It added that “El Niño continues to intensify steadily and is expected to dominate global climate patterns during the August to October 2026 season.”
NiMet also described it as a “Super El Niño” with significant implications for Nigeria’s rainfall patterns and noted that it increases the likelihood of above-normal temperatures globally. NiMet further pointed to global weather reports that confirm that the phenomenon is driving unusually high temperatures, with some areas seeing readings reach up to 41°C. Following the report, NEMA has urged Nigerians to take steps to protect themselves, their families and communities against the potential effects of the developing El Niño phenomenon. In a Monday advisory titled ‘Super El Niño Is Coming: What You Can Do to Protect Yourself, Your Family and Your Community,” the agency warned that “Super El Niño can cause hotter temperatures, less rainfall, drought, floods and food shortages.” NEMA, therefore, outlined eight measures individuals, households and communities could adopt to reduce the risks and stay safe.
Among measures recommended by the agency include: 1. Prepare for extreme heat Stay hydrated – drink clean water regularly. Avoid direct sun between 11 am and 4 pm. Wear light clothing, hats and use sunscreen. Check on children, the elderly and vulnerable people. 2. Conserve water Use water wisely and avoid waste. Fix leaks and store water in clean, covered containers. Keep your environment clean to protect water sources. 3. Ensure food security Store enough food for emergencies. Support local farming and home gardening. Protect your livestock and poultry. Take advantage of agricultural support programmes. 4. Pay attention to your health Prevent heat-related illnesses and dehydration.
Keep your surroundings clean to avoid malaria and water-borne diseases. Ensure proper sanitation and handwashing. Seek medical help early when unwell. 5. Support your livelihood Use drought-resistant crops and improved farming practices. Diversify income sources. Access government and partner support programmes. 6. Spend less time under the hot sun Limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours (11 am – 4 pm). Use shaded areas and wear a hat or cap. Take regular breaks and stay hydrated. Plan your activities for early morning or late evening
