Worsening El Nino threatens Asia with drought, potentially raising food prices globally

Indonesia (AP) -- Forecasts suggest this year's El Nino could be a record-breaking climate event, potentially resulting in severe drought and extreme weather across Asia and the globe. This naturally occurring warming of ocean temperatures may exacerbate drought, heat waves, flooding, and other climate disruptions in South America, Africa, and Asia.

Southeast Asia, already vulnerable to climate change, faces heightened risks from the intensifying El Nino. This year's El Nino may peak in December, further straining Asian governments already grappling with higher energy costs and scarce fertilizer supplies due to the Iran war. Experts warn that the phenomenon could worsen existing crises in the region, potentially pushing over 49 million more people into acute food insecurity by the end of 2027.

Southeast Asia's agriculture sector, particularly rice and palm oil exports, stands to suffer significantly, with major exporters like India, Vietnam, and Thailand among the nations most at risk.