WMO urges cities to strengthen preparedness as El Niño raises heat risks

Wednesday 23 September 2026 - 21:45

By: Azzat Manal

WMO urges cities to strengthen preparedness as El Niño raises heat risks

The World Meteorological Organization is calling on cities to strengthen their preparations for extreme heat as a rapidly intensifying El Niño adds to the risks posed by an already warming climate. The organization says governments and urban authorities should act before dangerous temperatures arrive rather than wait for heatwaves to trigger emergency responses.

El Niño develops through unusually warm conditions in the tropical Pacific, but its effects can extend far beyond the region. The phenomenon can alter rainfall and temperature patterns around the world, increasing the likelihood of extreme heat, droughts and flooding in different regions. Its effects vary according to location, season and the interaction with other climate drivers.

According to the WMO, the current El Niño is firmly established and is expected to strengthen further, potentially reaching very strong intensity toward the end of 2026. Forecasts indicate a near-100% likelihood that the event will persist through February 2027, although this does not mean that every city will experience the same weather conditions or heat intensity.

The organization has emphasized that cities are particularly vulnerable to extreme heat because buildings, roads and other urban surfaces can absorb heat during the day and release it slowly after sunset. This can make it difficult for residents to recover from prolonged exposure, especially in densely populated areas.

Public health is a central concern. Older people, children, outdoor workers, people with chronic illnesses and residents of poorly ventilated homes can face greater exposure when temperatures remain high for extended periods. The WMO is therefore encouraging closer coordination between meteorological services, health authorities, emergency managers, utilities and community organizations.

The organization recommends establishing clear thresholds that trigger action during dangerous heat conditions, identifying vulnerable populations in advance and ensuring that warnings reach residents quickly. Measures can include cooling spaces, targeted health advice, checks on isolated people and plans to maintain essential electricity, water and healthcare services during extreme temperatures.

The broader climate background is also becoming increasingly challenging. The WMO’s State of the Global Climate 2025 report confirmed that 2015 through 2025 were the 11 warmest years on record, while 2025 ranked among the three warmest years recorded globally. The organization has stressed that extreme weather events are placing growing pressure on communities and essential infrastructure.

India provides a recent illustration of the urban heat challenge. The WMO reported that 97 of the world’s hottest cities in May 2026 were located in India, with temperatures exceeding 45°C in numerous cities. The figures highlight the need to treat extreme heat as a predictable public-health risk rather than an isolated weather event.

Beyond emergency measures, the WMO is encouraging longer-term investments in reliable weather observations, early-warning systems and climate services. Urban planning can also play a role through better-ventilated housing, shaded public areas, additional trees and reflective roofs and surfaces designed to reduce heat exposure.

With El Niño expected to remain a major climate influence into early 2027, the WMO says cities still have an opportunity to use forecasts and early warnings to protect residents. The organization’s message is increasingly focused on turning climate information into practical action before extreme heat reaches dangerous levels.