10 Things to Know About El Niño and How Students Can Take Precautions

By Saba AbdulBasit and Irikefe Oghenetega 

Students have been urged to take precautionary measures against extreme weather conditions as the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) warns of a strong El Niño event in 2026, with potential implications for Nigeria’s rainfall patterns and global temperatures.

El Niño is the warm phase of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO), a natural climate cycle characterized by unusually warm surface waters in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. The phenomenon can disrupt atmospheric circulation, influencing rainfall, temperatures and storm activity across different parts of the world.

In its Prediction Update for August 2026 and the August-September-October 2026 Rainfall Forecast, NiMet stated, “Analysis of the most recent ocean observations confirms the onset of a strong El Niño event in 2026.” The agency also described the phenomenon as a “super El Niño,” highlighting its potential implications for Nigeria’s rainfall patterns and the increased likelihood of above-normal global temperatures.

El Niño, which means “the little boy” or “Christ Child” in Spanish, was named by Peruvian fishermen who observed warmer coastal waters around Christmas. The phenomenon develops when trade winds weaken or reverse, allowing warm Pacific Ocean waters to spread eastward towards South America. It typically occurs every two to seven years and lasts between nine and 12 months, although its duration and intensity vary.

The effects of El Niño differ across regions. Parts of South America and Central America may experience heavier rainfall and increased flooding, while Australia, Indonesia and some other regions may face drier conditions. The phenomenon can also influence hurricane activity and contribute to higher global average temperatures. Its impact on Nigeria will depend on regional atmospheric and oceanic conditions.

For students and educational institutions, extreme weather can lead to school closures, transportation difficulties, damaged facilities, and interruptions to academic activities. Prolonged heat may cause dehydration and heat stress, while flooding can threaten students’ safety and disrupt access to classrooms. Changes in rainfall may also affect water availability, sanitation, and other essential school services.

Here are the things you Should Know About El Niño and the Precautions to Take

1. El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon.

El Niño occurs when the surface waters of the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean become unusually warm, affecting weather patterns around the world.

Precaution: Students should understand the phenomenon and follow reliable weather reports to know how changing conditions may affect their communities.

2. It occurs every few years.

El Niño events occur every two to seven years and typically last between nine and 12 months, although individual events vary.

Precaution: Students should pay attention to seasonal weather forecasts and prepare for changes rather than assume conditions will remain the same throughout the school term.

3. It can contribute to unusually hot temperatures.

El Niño releases heat from the ocean into the atmosphere and can contribute to above-normal global temperatures.

Precaution: Students should drink clean water regularly, wear light and breathable clothing, seek shade and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day.

4. It can change rainfall patterns.

The phenomenon can bring heavier rainfall to some regions while contributing to drier conditions in others. NiMet has highlighted potential implications for Nigeria’s rainfall patterns.

Precaution: Students should monitor local forecasts, carry proper rain protection when necessary and follow school announcements about weather-related disruptions.

5. Heavy rainfall can increase flooding risks.

In affected areas, intense rainfall can flood roads, homes, and school premises, making transportation dangerous.

Precaution: Students should never walk or play in floodwater, avoid drainage channels and swollen streams, and follow instructions from school authorities and emergency officials.

6. Drier conditions can lead to water shortages.

El Niño can contribute to drought in some regions, potentially affecting access to water and sanitation.

Precaution: Students should conserve water at home and school, avoid wasting clean drinking water, and support efforts to keep hygienic handwashing facilities.

7. Extreme heat can affect students’ health.

Hot temperatures can cause dehydration and heat stress, affecting concentration, physical activity, and general well-being.

Precaution: Students should drink water often and report symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headaches or unusual tiredness to a teacher or responsible adult. Anyone experiencing severe symptoms should receive prompt medical attention.

8. Schools and academic activities may be disrupted.

Extreme weather can damage school facilities, disrupt transportation, and force temporary changes to academic schedules.

Precaution: Students should follow official school announcements, keep their devices charged and download learning materials when internet access is available to support continued learning.

9. Scientists watch El Niño to provide early warnings.

Satellites, ocean buoys, and climate models help scientists watch ocean temperatures, wind patterns, and weather changes.

Precaution: Students should rely on NiMet forecasts and other trusted official weather alerts instead of unverified social media reports. They should also discuss emergency plans with their families.

10. El Niño interacts with a warming climate.

Although El Niño is a natural phenomenon, its effects can combine with human-induced climate change to worsen certain heat extremes and rainfall events.

Precaution: Students should adopt responsible habits, including conserving water, keeping their surroundings clean, avoiding blocked drainage channels, and helping younger siblings understand basic weather safety rules.

As NiMet highlights the development of a strong El Niño event in 2026, students are encouraged to remain informed and take proper precautions against extreme weather. While the phenomenon does not affect every location in the same way, following official forecasts, observing safety guidelines, and preparing for disruptions can help protect students’ health, safety, and education.