Scientists Warn of a ‘Godzilla El Nino’ Capable of Killing 373,000 People in Six Months

In practice, a powerful weather phenomenon dubbed "Godzilla El Nino" could lead to an estimated 373, 000 extra heat-related deaths worldwide over the next six months, with countries throughout Africa and Asia facing some of the highest risks.

Key points

• While India could see another 55, 000, according to the estimates, Nigeria could record an extra 56, 000 heat-related deaths.
• UN Warns El Nino Could Become One of the Strongest Since 1950.
• Super El Nino to Turn 2026 into Hottest Year Ever.
• The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has cautioned that the event could contribute to rising global temperatures and more extreme weather conditions.
• El Nino is a naturally occurring climate pattern that develops when sea surface temperatures become unusually warm in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean.

Climate scientists at the University of Chicago's Climate Impact Lab have mapped regions that could be most vulnerable to rising temperatures during the projected El Nino event between October 2026 and March 2027. Super El Nino to Turn 2026 into Hottest Year Ever.

While India could see another 55, 000, according to the estimates, Nigeria could record an extra 56, 000 heat-related deaths. Indonesia is additionally among the countries facing significant risks, with an estimated 29, 000 further deaths. Meanwhile, Brazil could experience around 19, 000 deaths linked to extreme heat.

Scientists have cautioned that the developing weather phenomenon could become one of the strongest El Nino events on record, raising worries regarding its potential impact on public health and weather patterns worldwide. What Is Godzilla El Nino?

El Nino is a naturally occurring climate pattern that develops when sea surface temperatures become unusually warm in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean. It can disrupt weather patterns throughout the world, contributing to droughts, floods, and periods of extreme heat.

Although its strength and effects vary from one event to another, the phenomenon typically occurs every two to seven years.

For context, the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has estimated an 83% probability that the developing El Nino will reach historic strength between October and December 2026. Meanwhile, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has cautioned that the event could contribute to rising global temperatures and more extreme weather conditions.

Researchers say the projected death toll is an estimate rather than a confirmed outcome. The actual number of fatalities will depend on weather conditions and the measures governments take to protect vulnerable populations.

Early warning systems, cooling centers, improved healthcare, and restrictions on outdoor work during dangerous heat could support reduce the number of deaths. Stay Connected with ProPakistani. Obtain the latest international news and global stories wherever you prefer. Follow on Google Discover. Follow on Google News Join WhatsApp. See more ProPakistani stories in Google Search and Top Stories.

Taken together, the developments around scientists Warn of a 'Godzilla El Nino' Capable of Killing 373, 000 People point to a situation that is still moving, and the coming days should bring more clarity.