UNICEF Warns Climate Impacts Could Put More Than 347 Million Children at Risk
UNICEF Warns Climate Impacts Could Put More Than 347 Million Children at Risk
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More than 347 million children in nearly 100 countries and territories could face unusual climate conditions between October and December 2026 linked to the El Niño phenomenon, UNICEF has warned. The organization said the expected weather patterns could increase the risks of drought, flooding and related humanitarian emergencies.
According to a UNICEF analysis published by the United Nations, the El Niño event expected during 2026 and 2027 could rank among the strongest on record. Its effects could expose children to displacement, malnutrition, water shortages, disease outbreaks and interruptions to education, while placing additional economic pressure on vulnerable families.
The Asia-Pacific region has the largest number of children potentially exposed, at around 190 million, followed by East and Southern Africa and Latin America and the Caribbean, with about 41 million each. Europe and Central Asia account for approximately 22 million, while the Middle East and North Africa and West and Central Africa each have around 20 million children potentially affected.
UNICEF warned that parts of the Horn of Africa, particularly Somalia, could experience wetter-than-usual conditions, increasing the risks of flooding, waterborne diseases and disruptions to schooling. Children living in countries already affected by conflict and humanitarian crises are considered particularly vulnerable.
The agency said approximately 1.1 billion children—nearly half of all children worldwide—are already exposed to at least three overlapping climate and environmental risks, including drought, extreme heat and flooding.
Climate-related disasters also caused the displacement of more than 20,000 children every day between 2016 and 2023, according to UNICEF. Weather-related events in 2025 disrupted the education of around 171 million students worldwide.
UNICEF stressed the importance of investing in anticipatory measures and disaster preparedness. It said every dollar invested in disaster risk reduction can save up to $15 in recovery costs, while less than 1% of humanitarian funding currently goes toward anticipatory action.
The agency called on governments, donors and international partners to act early, strengthen the resilience of communities and essential services, and ensure that humanitarian assistance reaches children and communities most vulnerable to climate-related shocks.
