Scientists say the current El Niño could change sunlight patterns in late 2026, likely reducing the amount of light that touches crops, damaging photosynthesis and limiting growth.
This may hurt crop growth across the globe, triggering concerns about food security and putting supply chains.
Reports also show 2027 might bring even hotter temperatures because of a predicted super El Niño, amplifying heat stress on agriculture and escalating drought risk.
These two climate events together could make food shortages worse, worsening the risk of famine in vulnerable regions and undermining livelihoods.
Experts from The Canberra Times and pv magazine Australia raised the alarm, demanding swift action from policymakers and pointing out the need for adaptation measures.
Past data shows heat records and shifts in sunlight fit El Niño’s usual impacts, supporting the link between the phenomenon and weather extremes and strengthening scientific consensus.
The pattern now looks stronger than past extreme cases, implying that future episodes may be even more disruptive and necessitating urgent research.