Summary

Forecast to return in June 2023, the El Niño oceanographic phenomenon is a key driver of extreme weather events that pose high risks to global food security. Already in 2022, the number of people facing acute food insecurity was projected to reach up to 222 million in 53 countries/territories, the highest level on record according to the latest Hunger  Hotspots report. The escalation in food insecurity is a consequence of the combined effects of conflicts, economic shocks and weather extremes. 

Highlights

• El Niño oceanographic phenomenon is forecast to return in June 2023, following three years of La Niña.
• Dry weather conditions are expected in key cropping areas of Central America, Southern Africa and Far East Asia, while excessive rainfall and possible flooding are foreseen in Near East Asia and East Africa.