A powerful weather phenomenon known as Super El Niño could significantly increase heat-related deaths across the world, with India among the countries facing a major risk. According to projections by the University of Chicago’s Climate Impact Lab, India could witness approximately 15,670 additional heat-related deaths by February 2027 compared with a normal year. Globally, the September 2026 report projected around 4.51 lakh additional heat-related deaths between June 2026 and February 2027. Researchers also warned that extremely hot days could increase by around 44% compared with normal conditions, highlighting the growing threat posed by extreme temperatures and climate change.
El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon associated with unusually warm sea-surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean. It can influence global weather patterns, increase temperatures in many regions and affect rainfall, including India’s monsoon. The report warns that the impact of extreme heat could continue beyond February 2027, particularly in India and Pakistan as temperatures rise towards summer. Experts say early heat warnings, cooling centres, access to drinking water, better healthcare preparedness and stronger protection for outdoor workers could help reduce the risks. The projections are estimates rather than confirmed death counts, but researchers stress that timely preparation could save thousands of lives.
