Researchers from the University of Chicago's Climate Impact Lab have predicted that a powerful El Niño weather pattern could lead to around 451,000 extra heat-related deaths worldwide between now and February 2027. This projection combines temperature forecasts with data on how heat affects death rates across more than 24,000 regions globally. The study highlights that Nigeria is expected to suffer the highest number of heat-related deaths, with the Sahel region—spanning parts of Africa from the Atlantic Ocean to the Red Sea—being the most severely impacted. The Sahel region, which includes countries like Nigeria, Sudan, Niger, and Chad, is projected to experience 66,800 additional deaths from extreme heat compared to a typical year. Nigeria, the most populous of these four countries with over 237 million people, is expected to account for nearly half of these deaths—31,400. Sudan is projected to face 17,500 heat-related deaths, followed by Niger with 10,000 and Chad with 8,000. These numbers underscore the disproportionate impact of extreme heat on poorer regions, where fewer resources are available to protect people from the dangers of high temperatures. The study used the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts' seasonal forecasts to estimate temperature changes and combined that with peer-reviewed research to calculate the projected number of heat-related deaths. It also identified the most vulnerable populations: older adults, children, individuals with chronic health conditions, and outdoor workers who lack access to cooling indoors. These groups are at greater risk due to their limited ability to cope with extreme heat. To mitigate these risks, the researchers recommend that governments take immediate action, such as implementing early warning systems, creating heat action plans, and setting up cooling centers. They also suggest targeted health outreach programs and measures to protect outdoor workers during the hottest parts of the day. These steps, the study says, could save the most lives in the shortest time.