UNICEF warns of El Niño-related exposure for 347 million children
The estimate concerns potential unusual wet or dry conditions, not a count of children already harmed.
UNICEF warned in a publication dated 8 October 2026 that more than 347 million children live in areas expected to experience unusually wet or dry conditions associated with El Niño between October and December.
The estimates cover about 100 countries and territories, with the largest number of potentially exposed children in Asia and the Pacific. Flooding and drought can increase the risk of interrupted schooling, water shortages and displacement.
The figure measures potential exposure to unusual climate conditions. It is not a count of children already injured, displaced or otherwise affected. UNICEF called for early action to protect essential services, while recognising that the type and severity of risk differ between regions.
Source: UNICEF · Source date: 2026-10-08.
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