Strengthening El Nino threatens global food security and commodity prices, report says

The short version

• Experts and weather agencies warn that an intensifying El Nino could become one of the strongest recorded since 1950, causing severe droughts and extreme weather across Asia, Africa, and South America.[ABC News]
• The World Food Program warns the weather pattern could push 49 million additional people into acute food insecurity by late 2027.[ABC News]
• Goldman Sachs estimates food commodity prices could increase by over 15%, while agricultural producers prepare for crop disruptions.[ABC News]

Key facts

• The U.S. NOAA estimates a 69% probability that the current El Nino will be the strongest recorded since 1950.[ABC News]
• Global ocean temperatures reached record high levels in August.[ABC News]
• Indonesia and Malaysia generate approximately 85% of global palm oil supplies.[ABC News]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

• Worsening El Nino threatens Asia with drought, potentially raising prices globallyABC News - International
• Worsening El Nino threatens Asia with severe drought, potentially threatening global food securityPBS NewsHour - World
• Huge El Niño projected to cause 450,000 deaths in next six monthsThe Guardian - Environment
• Powerful El Nino could cause more than 450,000 deaths, scientists sayAl Jazeera
• El Niño could cause 451,000 more heat deaths compared to normal year, group saysCBS News - US
• Scientists warn super El Nino could cause 450,000 deaths: Should we worry?Al Jazeera