Scientists say the current El Niño could change sunlight patterns in late 2026, potentially reducing the amount of light that touches crops, stress‑ing photosynthesis and limiting growth.
This may hurt crop growth around the world, exacerbating 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 worsening drought risk.
These two climate events together could make food shortages worse, heightening the risk of famine in vulnerable regions and threatening livelihoods.
Experts from The Canberra Times and pv magazine Australia raised the alarm, urging swift action from policymakers and highlighting the need for adaptation measures.
Past data shows heat records and shifts in sunlight fit El Niño’s usual impacts, confirming 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 calling for urgent research.