'Super' El Niño Forecast Sparks Concern Over Food Prices and Energy Volatility
The chance of a 'super' El Niño has grown to greater than 90%, with a 75% chance of it being one of the strongest ever, according to the Climate Prediction Center.
El Niño's effects go beyond weather patterns. Experts at Columbia Climate School have identified five lesser-known impacts that will likely occur this year.
One key effect is on food prices. El Niño can disrupt global food production, particularly for crops like rice and wheat. In fact, a Goldman Sachs analysis predicts the El Niño could contribute to a 16% price increase in global food commodities, affecting at least 49 million people experiencing acute food insecurity by the end of 2027.
Another significant impact is on energy volatility. With increased demand for cooling power during hot El Niño years and reduced hydropower production due to decreased precipitation, experts warn of a tight and constrained energy picture.