Update: Malawi is facing severe climate risks following a new warning from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration about a potential super El Niño, according to a May 23 briefing on regional climate threats. The report indicates an 82 percent probability of the severe weather pattern developing by July 2026.
Countries across southern Africa, including Malawi, are projected to experience below-average rainfall and prolonged mid-season dry spells. The weather pattern threatens the agricultural sector, particularly staple crops, and could increase water shortages for livestock while heavily disrupting the region's hydropower generation capabilities.