Super El Niño Could Lead to Hundreds of Thousands of Heat-Related Deaths

Researchers warn that the current 'super El Niño' could lead to up to 451,000 additional heat-related deaths worldwide between June 2026 and February 2027, according to a study by the University of Chicago’s Climate Impact Lab. The report highlights a projected 44% increase in extremely hot days, with Nigeria, Indonesia, and Sudan expected to be among the hardest-hit regions. The impact may extend beyond the six-month period studied. Scientists note that the Global South will be disproportionately affected by the phenomenon. While the figures are consistent across multiple reports, the exact number of deaths may vary depending on regional climate responses and mitigation efforts. The findings have been discussed by experts such as Chloe Brimicombe from the University of Oxford, who has provided further insights into the climate phenomenon.