El Niño, a climate pattern characterized by unusually warm ocean temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific, is known for causing severe weather events such as typhoons and floods. However, this year’s El Niño is expected to bring a more dangerous threat: extreme heat. Scientists warn that this could lead to an additional 451,000 deaths worldwide within six months. The most severe impacts are expected in Africa, especially in the Sahel region, where an estimated 66,800 deaths could occur, with 31,400 of those in Nigeria. Other countries in the region, including Sudan, Niger, and Chad, are also expected to face significant consequences. In Southeast Asia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Thailand, and Cambodia could see around 19,400 additional deaths, while Indonesia would experience 19,300 more. India and Brazil are also at risk, with 15,800 and 13,300 estimated deaths, respectively. North America, Europe, and Australia will also be affected, but to a lesser degree. The extreme heat associated with El Niño is likely to worsen conditions such as droughts and wildfires, which can lead to food and water shortages. It may also increase the spread of diseases carried by insects, such as malaria and dengue fever, in regions already struggling with limited healthcare access. Authorities are urging governments and communities to prepare by strengthening agricultural systems, public health infrastructure, and emergency response plans. Some officials are advising people to stockpile essential supplies, such as food and water, in case supply chains are disrupted. Others warn that certain supermarket shelves could become temporarily empty as demand for these goods rises. This year’s El Niño is the strongest on record, with ocean temperatures in the tropical Pacific more than 2.5 °C above average—far exceeding previous El Niño events. The peak of this phenomenon has not yet arrived, raising concerns that conditions could worsen in the coming weeks. The heat poses the greatest risk to vulnerable populations, including the elderly, those with weakened immune systems, and people without access to air conditioning or adequate healthcare. In many affected regions, the infrastructure to combat extreme heat is underdeveloped, leaving communities at high risk of heat-related illnesses and deaths. Beyond the direct health impacts, El Niño can act as a catalyst for other crises. In areas already suffering from poverty and limited access to medical care, the spread of diseases could be more severe. Droughts and wildfires may further strain resources and displace people. International organizations are calling on governments to take these risks seriously and invest in preparedness. While El Niño is often associated with dramatic weather events like storms and floods, the current situation highlights the underestimated danger of prolonged heat and its far-reaching consequences. This underscores the need for greater awareness and proactive measures to protect the most vulnerable populations.