UNICEF flags flood and drought risks for children as El Niño strengthens
More than 40 million children in eight Eastern and Southern African countries are expected to face unusually wet or dry conditions between October and December 2026 linked to El Niño, UNICEF said in an analysis released on 1 September. The agency said the outlook raises the risk of floods and drought.
The regional forecast is linked to a broader humanitarian-priority list that includes South Sudan and Sudan. UNICEF called for advance investment in nutrition supplies, health and water systems, safe learning spaces and social protection. It said US$173 million was urgently needed within its existing 2026 humanitarian requirements for anticipatory and life-saving assistance.
The analysis defines its October–December rainfall forecast using a 70% probability threshold in areas with a history of El Niño impacts. The 40-million figure applies only to children in eight countries; it is not the same geographic scope as UNICEF’s list of 13 priority countries. The release was updated on 7 October, replacing an earlier broader weather-exposure measure with a new El Niño-specific analysis.
UNICEF and partners said they had delivered assistance to Wiechjol in Akobo County and Waat in Nyirol County, Jonglei State, after months without humanitarian support. The agency said conflict, displacement and unsafe routes had disrupted health, water, protection and nutrition services since January 2026.
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