Despite the impending shift towards neutral conditions, El Niño continues to wreak havoc, particularly in Eastern and Southern Africa. The region has been hit hard by severe weather events, resulting in hundreds of deaths and displacement of millions of people. Scientists and disaster management professionals are already preparing for the potential impacts of La Niña, which is estimated to have a 69% chance of occurring between July-September and an 85% chance by the end of the year.
Meanwhile, other parts of the world are also facing their own challenges. Over one million people have been affected by floods in Kenya, Brazil, and Pakistan. South-East Asia is currently experiencing a widespread heatwave while Southern Africa is facing the possibility of failed harvests due to drought. These crises have resulted in significant humanitarian requirements that are underfunded, leaving those on the ground struggling to cope with the consequences.
The increasing international and regional mobilization response to these crises is a positive development, but further action is necessary. It is crucial to bolster support and resources to address the immediate needs of those affected by these natural disasters. The international community must come together to help those who need it most and ensure that they have access to food, shelter, healthcare, and other essential services during these challenging times.
