The Department of Climate Change and Meteorological Services has issued urgent warnings regarding a potentially severe El Niño event for the 2026/2027 agricultural season. Chanco Community Radio reports that climate experts expect below-normal rainfall and above-average temperatures to significantly affect agricultural production and food security. An area-specific impact report released by the department highlighted that the Southern Region faces the highest compound risks, including simultaneous threats of severe drought and extreme rainfall.
Preparedness efforts are facing major challenges as a massive funding gap threatens the national response strategy. According to Nation Online, a policy note from the International Food Policy Research Institute warns of the financial shortfall. The meteorology department has listed 12 districts at the highest risk, including Blantyre, Chikwawa, Mulanje, and Mangochi. Meteorologists indicate an 80 percent probability of a strong El Niño developing, prompting officials to urge farmers to prepare for the expected extreme weather conditions.