Bangladesh might experience a strong effect from increasing global temperatures caused by a growing “Super El Niño” — a strong weather event getting stronger in the Pacific region.
According to a recent scientific projection by the international research organization Climate Impact Lab, the period from September 2026 to February 2027 poses a significant risk of adverse health effects and fatalities due to intense heatwaves, particularly in Bangladesh’s southern and coastal regions.
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has indicated that this El Niño cycle could become one of the most powerful of the current century.
Key research findings and at-risk regions: scientists have identified specific areas of the country as being particularly vulnerable:
Severe impact on southern and southwestern regions: heatwaves could have a devastating impact on the Khulna, Barishal, and Chattogram regions. Notably, projections suggest that the Khulna region alone could witness over 300 additional heat-related deaths during this six-month period.
Strain on workers and marginalized groups: the mix of long-lasting climate change and the sudden strength of El Niño puts outdoor workers such as day laborers, rickshaw drivers, and farmers in serious danger to their health. Urgent calls have been made for increased awareness and proactive preparedness to prevent heatstroke and various heat-related health complications.
Conclusion and Green Page stance: the high global temperatures from El Niño create a tough problem for economies such as Bangladesh that are vulnerable to climate change.
Green Page believes that, alongside strengthening the Heat Action Plan at the national level, effective measures must be taken immediately to ensure emergency medical services and cooling facilities in marginalized and coastal areas.
