PAHO: Strengthening El Niño raises growing health risks across the Americas

El Niño strengthening across the Americas is already triggering drought, food insecurity, dengue outbreaks, wildfires, and flooding in multiple countries, the Pan American Health Organization reported September 18, 2026. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration estimates greater than 90% probability of a very strong El Niño during fall and winter 2026–27. More than 5.2 million people across the region face acute food insecurity or related health risks, with eight countries or territories issuing official emergency declarations.

Central America's Dry Corridor is severely affected, with nearly three million Guatemalans and 1.8–2.2 million Hondurans experiencing critical food insecurity. Peru recorded at least 70 deaths from heavy rains and flooding between December 2025 and August 2026, damaging over 600 health facilities. Colombia faces concurrent wildfires, rainfall, dengue, malaria, and yellow fever risks, while Brazil reports Amazon water level declines and air quality degradation, with 630 municipalities exceeding WHO particulate matter guidelines.