Here are 10 ways a ‘super’ El Niño could impact the planet | Benjamin Selwyn

A powerful El Niño event, potentially a "super" El Niño, is poised to exacerbate existing global economic inequalities, according to an analysis by Benjamin Selwyn published on June 9, 2026. The phenomenon is expected to trigger a cascade of climate impacts that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations and developing nations. These impacts include intensified droughts in some regions, leading to crop failures and food insecurity, while other areas may experience severe flooding and extreme weather events. The economic consequences are projected to include disruptions to supply chains, increased commodity price volatility, and a rise in humanitarian crises requiring significant international aid. Selwyn's analysis highlights that the financial burden of responding to these climate-induced disasters will fall heaviest on countries with the least capacity to cope, widening the gap between rich and poor nations. The interconnectedness of the global economy means that these regional climate shocks can have ripple effects worldwide, impacting trade, investment, and overall economic stability. The article emphasizes the need for proactive global cooperation and climate adaptation strategies to mitigate the worst effects of such extreme weather events and to address the underlying economic vulnerabilities.