UN Urges Swift Action to Combat El Niño Impact
Top UN officials have called for immediate action to address the devastating effects of the current El Niño extreme weather events, which are wreaking havoc in southern Africa and other regions through a combination of flooding and drought.
Current Situation
The ongoing El Niño event, which began in mid- to late 2023, has led to a rise in ocean temperatures, resulting in severe consequences. Southern Africa has already witnessed significant damage to its agriculture sector, leading to crop shortfalls and increased commodity prices. Additionally, Kenya has experienced flooding, affecting over 200,000 individuals and resulting in the loss of more than 100 lives.
Impact on Affected Regions
Around 40 to 50 million people in 16 countries are currently grappling with the repercussions of these extreme weather events. Reena Ghelani, the new Climate Crisis Coordinator for the El Niño/La Niña Response, emphasized the urgent need for adaptation efforts in these climate-affected nations.
- Climate Crisis Coordination
- Adaptation Efforts
- Financial Support
Ms. Ghelani highlighted the allocation of $54 million by the UN Secretary-General to proactively address the situation and stressed the necessity for additional funding, citing previous response plans that cost up to $3 billion.
Predictions and Future Concerns
Meteorologists have indicated a 60 to 80 per cent likelihood of a La Niña phenomenon occurring later this year, which could bring further challenges such as increased rainfall in some regions and prolonged drought in others. Ms. Ghelani warned that without swift action, the situation may escalate, impacting communities worldwide well into the following year.
Preventative Measures
Emphasizing the importance of immediate action, Ms. Ghelani stated that timely intervention could avert a major crisis. She urged global cooperation to implement necessary measures promptly and effectively to mitigate the potential consequences of these extreme weather events.
Drought Crisis in Southern Africa
Southern Africa is currently facing a severe drought crisis, prompting several countries to declare a state of emergency. Ms. Ghelani recounted her recent visit to the region, noting that February marked the hottest month in a century. Urgent action is required to provide support to the affected populations, with a focus on climate adaptation strategies.
FAO’s Efforts to Address Food Insecurity
Beth Bechdol, Deputy Director-General of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), highlighted the role of extreme weather in exacerbating food insecurity for millions of individuals across 18 countries. She emphasized the need for collective action to anticipate and address the impacts of events like El Niño.
Supporting Farmers and Communities
FAO is actively providing assistance to farmers and communities, ranging from cash transfers to the distribution of drought-resistant crop seeds. Efforts are aimed at safeguarding food supplies and nutrition sources during crises, with a focus on protecting crops, fields, and livestock.
Long-Term Solutions
FAO is also studying the enduring effects of major disasters on agriculture and implementing strategies to mitigate future risks. Initiatives such as developing drought-resistant crops and providing essential resources to vulnerable populations are crucial in safeguarding communities from the impact of extreme weather events.