The South African Cabinet is bracing for the possible impact of an El Niño event in 2026-2027, which could exacerbate pressure on water security, agriculture, and food supplies. During a post-Cabinet media briefing, Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni stated that the event could have far-reaching consequences for the country. Cabinet discussed a report on the potential weather event and measures to mitigate its effects, particularly in areas where water resources and municipal water security are already under strain.
Ntshavheni warned that the impact of El Niño would not be limited to water security, but would affect every South African in various forms and on multiple fronts. The agricultural sector is expected to face severe consequences if the El Niño event materializes, particularly through drought and its effect on food security. This could have a ripple effect on the entire food supply chain, leading to food shortages and price increases.
In addition to water and food security, the Cabinet is also concerned about the risk of fires, with disaster-management centres and municipal fire services needing to be prepared to respond. The response will take into account the risk of fires and the potential impact on households already facing cost-of-living pressures. Ntshavheni noted that South Africans are already experiencing high cost of living, and the El Niño event could further exacerbate this issue.
To coordinate the government's response, President Cyril Ramaphosa will establish an inter-ministerial team. The team will ensure that disaster management centres and municipal fire services are ready to respond to the potential effects of El Niño. Cabinet has called on provincial and municipal authorities to remain on high alert and strengthen their preparedness measures.
The Cabinet is assessing the possible effects of El Niño across different sectors, including the impact of fuel prices and energy costs. Communities have been urged to monitor warnings from the South African Weather Service and follow disaster-management guidance, particularly in areas at risk of flooding, strong winds, hail, and other severe weather conditions.
According to the World Meteorological Organization, there is a more than 90% chance that the El Niño event will persist until at least November. South Africa has already experienced extreme temperatures and changing weather patterns, with a potentially record-breaking El Niño driving these conditions. The country is expected to see about 1,200 additional heat deaths between September and February.
The government is taking proactive steps to mitigate the effects of the potential El Niño event. By establishing an inter-ministerial team and urging communities to take precautions, the Cabinet aims to minimize the impact on water security, agriculture, and food supplies. The effects of El Niño will be closely monitored, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Key points
- The South African Cabinet is preparing for a potential El Niño event in 2026-27, which could put pressure on water security, agriculture, and food supplies.
- The event could have far-reaching consequences for the country, affecting every South African in various forms and on multiple fronts.
- An inter-ministerial team will be established to coordinate the government's response to the potential El Niño event.
