El Niño 2026–2027 Early Warning and Preparedness

Highlights

El Niño 2026-2027 has formed and is expected to persist into 2027, with a more than 95 per cent probability according to government and international forecasts. The South-Central Coast, Central Highlands and Mekong Delta face the highest risks of drought, water shortages and saltwater intrusion, particularly between late 2026 and May 2027. While no widespread humanitarian impacts have yet been confirmed, children are among the most vulnerable to disruptions in safe water, nutrition, health, education and protection services. UNICEF Viet Nam is working with government and partners to strengthen early warning, preparedness and anticipatory action to protect children and maintain essential services before impacts escalate.