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| Prepare for and Stay Safe During El Niño |
El Niño is one of the most important climate phenomena affecting weather patterns around the world. Although it begins with unusual warming of ocean waters in the tropical Pacific, its influence can extend far beyond the Pacific Ocean, changing rainfall patterns, temperatures and the likelihood of extreme weather in different parts of the world.
For communities, El Niño should not simply be viewed as a weather event. Depending on the region, it can bring heavy rainfall and flooding, drought, unusually high temperatures, water shortages, crop losses, disease outbreaks and disruptions to transport and essential services.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) reported on 3 September 2026 that El Niño is firmly established and is expected to strengthen into a very strong event, with an exceptionally high likelihood of continuing through February 2027. The organization also warned of increased risks associated with floods, drought and extreme heat.
The good news is that people do not have to wait for severe weather to happen before taking action. Seasonal forecasts and early-warning information can provide valuable time for households, farmers, businesses and governments to prepare.
This guide explains practical ways to reduce the risks associated with El Niño and build greater resilience before, during and after extreme weather.
What Is El Niño?
El Niño is the warm phase of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation, commonly known as ENSO. It occurs when sea-surface temperatures in parts of the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean become unusually warm, interacting with the atmosphere and influencing weather patterns over large areas.
El Niño does not produce exactly the same weather everywhere. One region may experience unusually heavy rainfall while another experiences drought. Temperature changes can also vary considerably from one location to another.
This is why people should avoid assuming that every El Niño event will produce the same conditions as a previous event.
According to the WMO, the effects of an El Niño event depend on its strength, duration, season, geographical pattern and interaction with other climate systems.
For this reason, local weather forecasts are extremely important. A general statement such as "El Niño will bring more rain" is not sufficient for making household or agricultural decisions. People should pay attention to forecasts and warnings issued by their national meteorological authority and local disaster-management authorities.
Why Should People Prepare for El Niño?
El Niño can influence several areas of everyday life.
Heavy rainfall can overwhelm drainage systems, rivers and low-lying areas. Floodwater can damage homes, roads, bridges, crops and electrical infrastructure.
In other areas, reduced rainfall can lead to water shortages, poor crop development, livestock stress and increased pressure on food supplies.
Higher temperatures can create additional health risks, particularly for older adults, young children, outdoor workers and people living in poorly ventilated homes.
The World Health Organization notes that ENSO-related changes can affect health through extreme heat, flooding, drought, food insecurity, water and sanitation problems, and changes in the distribution of some infectious diseases.
Preparation is therefore not only about protecting property. It is also about protecting lives, health, food supplies, water resources and livelihoods.
1. Follow Reliable Weather Information
One of the simplest and most effective ways to prepare for El Niño is to stay informed.
Weather conditions can change rapidly, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall or extreme heat. People should regularly check official weather forecasts and warnings rather than relying exclusively on social media posts, forwarded messages or unverified predictions.
Pay attention to information about:
- Heavy rainfall
- Flood warnings
- Thunderstorms
- Strong winds
- Extreme temperatures
- Drought conditions
- River levels
- Tropical storms where relevant
- Road and transport disruptions
- Public safety instructions
Seasonal forecasts are particularly useful because they can help farmers, water managers, health authorities and communities make decisions before dangerous conditions develop.
WMO emphasizes that advanced forecasts and early-warning systems provide an opportunity to take action before extreme weather becomes a crisis.
2. Prepare Your Home for Heavy Rain and Flooding
If your area has a risk of increased rainfall during El Niño, inspect your home before the rainy season becomes intense.
Clean gutters, drainage channels and areas around the house where leaves, plastic and other rubbish can block water flow.
Check the roof for damaged sheets, loose materials and leaking areas. Repair problems before heavy rain arrives.
If your home is located in a flood-prone area, identify the safest route to higher ground. Do not wait until floodwater surrounds the house before deciding where to go.
Important documents should be stored in waterproof containers or sealed plastic bags. These may include identification documents, property records, insurance information, medical information and other essential paperwork.
Households should also consider preparing an emergency bag containing basic necessities such as:
- Drinking water
- Non-perishable food
- A flashlight
- Extra batteries
- Basic first-aid supplies
- Necessary medicines
- Important documents
- Phone chargers or alternative power sources
- Hygiene supplies
- Basic clothing
The contents should be adapted to the needs of the household.
3. Never Underestimate Floodwater
Floodwater can look harmless while hiding serious dangers.
Fast-moving water can sweep away people, motorcycles, cars and other objects. Floodwater can also contain sewage, chemicals, sharp objects and disease-causing organisms.
Never attempt to walk or drive through moving floodwater simply because the water appears shallow.
Children should be kept away from flooded roads, drainage channels, rivers and temporary pools.
If authorities recommend evacuation, follow the instruction promptly. Evacuating early is usually safer than waiting until roads become impassable.
Flood preparedness should also include knowing where local emergency shelters, health facilities and safe higher ground are located.
4. Protect Drinking Water
Water safety becomes especially important during flooding.
Floodwater can contaminate wells, water-storage containers and other drinking-water sources. Damaged sanitation systems can increase the risk of waterborne diseases.
Store clean drinking water before severe weather occurs. Keep water containers covered and away from chemicals, fuel, waste and other sources of contamination.
If local authorities issue instructions to boil, treat or otherwise make water safe before drinking, follow those instructions carefully.
Never assume that clear-looking floodwater is safe to drink.
WHO identifies safe water, sanitation, hygiene promotion and disease surveillance as important components of preparedness for El Niño-related health risks.
5. Protect Yourself From Extreme Heat
El Niño can increase the likelihood of unusually high temperatures in some parts of the world.
During very hot weather, people should reduce unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight, particularly during the hottest part of the day.
Drink safe water regularly and avoid becoming dehydrated. Wear lightweight clothing and seek cooler, well-ventilated places when temperatures become uncomfortable.
Outdoor workers should take appropriate breaks and avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat.
Extra attention should be given to children, older people and others who may be particularly vulnerable to heat stress.
Warning signs of serious heat-related illness can include confusion, fainting, severe weakness and other concerning symptoms. Anyone showing serious symptoms should receive urgent medical attention.
Heat preparedness is particularly important because extreme heat can place additional pressure on electricity, water supplies and health services.
6. Farmers Should Adjust Their Plans
Agriculture is one of the sectors most sensitive to changing rainfall and temperature patterns.
Farmers should not rely exclusively on historical rainfall patterns when making decisions during an El Niño year. Instead, they should combine seasonal climate information with local weather forecasts and agricultural advice.
Where reduced rainfall is expected, farmers may consider:
- Planting crops suited to shorter growing seasons
- Using drought-tolerant varieties where appropriate
- Improving soil moisture conservation
- Mulching
- Harvesting and storing rainwater where practical
- Reducing unnecessary water losses
- Diversifying crops
- Protecting livestock from heat and water shortages
Where excessive rainfall is expected, farmers should consider appropriate drainage, erosion control, raised planting areas where suitable, and protection of stored food and agricultural equipment.
The correct strategy depends heavily on the local forecast. El Niño impacts are not identical across countries or even between neighboring regions.
7. Protect Livestock
Livestock can be affected by both drought and excessive rainfall.
During hot and dry conditions, animals need reliable access to safe drinking water and shade.
Farmers should monitor animals for signs of heat stress, dehydration, disease and inadequate nutrition.
Where heavy rainfall is expected, livestock shelters should be inspected for structural problems and drainage should be improved.
Feed should be stored in dry conditions and protected from flooding.
Farmers should also maintain contact with veterinary and agricultural extension services so that emerging disease or nutrition problems can be identified early.
8. Reduce the Risk of Mosquito-Borne Diseases
Changes in rainfall and temperature can alter mosquito habitats and the transmission patterns of some vector-borne diseases.
Standing water around homes can create breeding sites for mosquitoes. After rainfall, households should remove unnecessary containers that collect water and keep water-storage containers properly covered.
People should follow local public-health advice concerning mosquito protection.
Depending on local disease risks, recommended measures may include sleeping under insecticide-treated nets, using appropriate repellents, wearing protective clothing and seeking medical attention when symptoms of disease develop.
WHO notes that ENSO-related weather changes can influence vector-borne diseases, including malaria and dengue in susceptible regions.
9. Prepare for Possible Food Shortages
El Niño can affect food production when drought, flooding or extreme heat damages crops.
Households can improve resilience by avoiding unnecessary food waste and maintaining reasonable supplies of essential, non-perishable foods where financially possible.
Farmers can reduce risks by diversifying production rather than depending entirely on one crop.
Communities can strengthen food security through grain storage, local food networks, community gardens and responsible management of water and agricultural resources.
Governments and humanitarian organizations can also use seasonal forecasts to prepare food assistance and other support before severe impacts occur.
10. Protect Electricity and Communication Equipment
Extreme weather can damage electricity infrastructure and interrupt communications.
Before severe weather, charge essential electronic devices and keep flashlights available.
Where appropriate, protect electrical equipment from water exposure. Never touch electrical appliances, cables or outlets while standing in water.
If floodwater enters a building, avoid attempting to repair electrical systems yourself. Contact qualified professionals or follow instructions from the electricity provider and emergency authorities.
Maintaining communication is also important. Families should have a simple plan for contacting each other if mobile networks become congested or temporarily unavailable.
11. Plan for Travel and Transport Disruptions
Heavy rainfall can make roads dangerous or temporarily impassable.
Before travelling during periods of severe weather, check the latest weather and road information.
Avoid unnecessary travel during major storms or flooding.
Never drive through water covering a road when its depth or current is uncertain. A vehicle can lose traction or be swept away unexpectedly.
People who regularly travel long distances should consider carrying drinking water, charged communication devices and basic emergency supplies.
12. Protect Children During Extreme Weather
Children require special attention during emergencies.
Teach children not to play near rivers, drainage channels, flooded roads or electrical equipment.
Explain simple emergency procedures, including where the family will meet if separated and whom they should contact for help.
Schools can also prepare emergency plans covering evacuation routes, communication procedures, safe storage of records and protection of students during severe weather.
Children should never be sent to collect water from dangerous or flooded areas.
13. Check on Vulnerable Neighbours
Community resilience can make a major difference during an El Niño event.
Check on elderly neighbours, people living alone and households that may have difficulty responding to floods, heat or water shortages.
Community groups can organize emergency communication networks and identify safe evacuation locations.
Local leaders can also help distribute verified weather information and discourage dangerous activities during extreme weather.
Preparedness works best when it is treated as a shared responsibility rather than something left entirely to individual households.
14. Businesses Should Have a Continuity Plan
El Niño can affect businesses through damaged roads, power interruptions, supply-chain delays, flooding, water shortages and reduced customer activity.
Businesses should identify their most important operations and consider what would happen if normal services were interrupted for several days.
Useful measures can include:
- Backing up important digital information
- Protecting equipment from flooding
- Identifying alternative suppliers
- Maintaining emergency communication contacts
- Reviewing insurance arrangements
- Protecting stock from water damage
- Establishing staff safety procedures
- Preparing alternative working arrangements where possible
Businesses located in flood-prone areas should pay particular attention to drainage and the protection of electrical and mechanical equipment.
15. Do Not Rely on Rumours
Extreme weather events often generate misinformation.
Some social media posts may exaggerate forecasts, while others may incorrectly claim that a particular date will experience a guaranteed disaster.
Weather forecasting involves uncertainty, especially over longer periods. Responsible communication should therefore distinguish between a forecast, a warning and a confirmed observation.
Use information from recognized meteorological services, public-health authorities, disaster-management agencies and other credible institutions.
The WMO specifically stresses the importance of science-based early-warning information and coordinated preparedness.
What Should You Do Before, During and After El Niño Impacts?
Before Severe Weather
- Prepare an emergency kit.
- Clean drainage systems.
- Repair leaking roofs.
- Store safe drinking water.
- Review evacuation routes.
- Protect important documents.
- Check weather forecasts regularly.
- Farmers should review crop and livestock plans according to local climate information.
- Families should discuss what they will do if flooding, extreme heat or another emergency occurs.
During Severe Weather
- Stay indoors when conditions are dangerous.
- Follow official warnings.
- Avoid flooded roads and moving water.
- Protect children from hazardous areas.
- Keep emergency communication devices available.
- Do not touch electrical equipment exposed to water.
- Seek medical assistance when necessary.
- If authorities order evacuation, leave using the recommended route.
After Severe Weather
- Do not immediately assume that conditions are safe simply because rainfall has stopped.
- Floodwater may remain contaminated or electrically dangerous.
- Inspect homes carefully before returning.
- Avoid damaged buildings until they have been declared safe where necessary.
- Dispose of contaminated food and water appropriately.
- Watch for signs of disease after flooding.
- Continue following official warnings because additional rainfall can cause renewed flooding.
- Report damaged roads, bridges, power infrastructure and other hazards to the appropriate authorities.
El Niño Requires Preparation, Not Panic
El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon, not a prediction that every community will experience a disaster.
Its impacts vary significantly from place to place. Some communities may face flooding while others experience drought or extreme heat. Even within the same country, conditions can differ between regions.
That is why preparedness should always be based on local forecasts and official warnings rather than assumptions.
The current 2026–2027 El Niño episode deserves particular attention. The WMO's latest assessment indicates that the event is expected to strengthen further and persist into early 2027, increasing the potential for significant shifts in rainfall and temperature patterns.
For households, preparation can mean keeping emergency supplies ready and knowing where to go during a flood.
For farmers, it can mean adjusting planting, water management and livestock strategies according to reliable climate information.
For communities, it can mean maintaining drainage systems, protecting water supplies and ensuring vulnerable people are not left behind.
For governments and institutions, it means investing in early-warning systems, disaster preparedness, resilient infrastructure and accessible public information.
The most important lesson is simple: do not wait for extreme weather to arrive before preparing for it.
Good forecasts give people time to make better decisions. A clean drainage system, a protected water source, a prepared emergency bag, an informed farmer or an early evacuation can make a significant difference when conditions become dangerous.
El Niño cannot be prevented by an individual household, but its impacts can often be reduced through planning, accurate information and collective action.
As climate variability continues to challenge communities around the world, preparedness should become a normal part of household, agricultural and community planning—not something people consider only after disaster strikes.
