WASHINGTON, DC — AS much of the world braces for the effects of El Niño conditions, United Nations Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator Tom Fletcher is warning that the weather phenomenon could have devastating humanitarian consequences.
The weather pattern is expected to bring prolonged heatwaves, droughts and flooding to several regions. Severe heat has already affected millions of people across Europe and the United States, with multiple heat-related deaths reported.
In a statement, Fletcher said extreme heat, droughts and floods are once again expected to devastate communities across Latin America, Eastern and Southern Africa, Asia and the Pacific.
He recalled that the 2023-2024 El Niño left tens of millions of people in need of food, nutrition, clean water, sanitation, healthcare, agricultural assistance and protection.
“The forecasts are clear: this one looks even worse. It comes on top of widespread conflict, rising numbers of people on the move, and as soaring fuel, fertilizer and food prices are squeezing the most vulnerable families – while the humanitarian system reels from deep cuts,” Fletcher said.
To strengthen preparedness, he announced that the United Nations is ready to disburse up to US$100 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) to help countries respond before conditions worsen.
“In support of that we are planning, implementing the lessons from the past, innovating, coordinating the humanitarian community and taking action,” Fletcher said. “Our preparations are shaped by more sophisticated forecasts. More than US$20 million has already been allocated for anticipatory action in six countries. Through CERF's Climate Action Account, we are investing in vulnerable communities to better withstand the climate shocks ahead.”
He stressed the need for early and flexible financing, describing it as more effective and less costly than responding after disasters strike. Fletcher also called on the international community to prioritise conflict resolution, support displaced populations and take stronger climate action.
“The choice is clear: we can wait for disaster, or we can invest in resilience,” he said.
Meanwhile, officials in St. Kitts and Nevis have warned that El Niño conditions are expected to persist through the latter part of the year. They have cautioned that the prolonged dry conditions could reduce rainfall and place additional pressure on the Federation's water supply.
Authorities are urging residents to conserve water and have already implemented measures aimed at protecting the country's water resources as dry conditions continue.
