UNICEF: Millions of Latin American Children at Risk from El Niño
Summary
Millions of children in Latin America face rising risks from severe drought, floods and wildfires as a strong El Niño intensifies climate impacts across the region. UNICEF says funding for its emergency response remains far short of its $53.8 million target.
Key Points
- UNICEF says 25.8 million Latin American children, or one in seven, are at growing risk from drought and floods linked to El Niño.
- Central American countries are facing drought and malnutrition risks, while parts of Bolivia, Colombia, Chile and Venezuela face higher wildfire danger.
- Mexico and the Pacific coast of South America are expected to see heavier rainfall, raising flood risks and threatening schools and health infrastructure.
- UNICEF has raised only half of the $53.8 million it requested for the El Niño emergency response in Latin America.
