The National Emergency Management Agency has urged Nigerians to take practical steps to protect themselves, their families and communities from the potential effects of the developing El Niño phenomenon.

In a Monday advisory, the agency warned that a “Super El Niño” could bring hotter temperatures, reduced rainfall, drought, floods and food shortages.

El Niño is a natural climate pattern that occurs when sea-surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean become warmer than usual.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency has confirmed the onset of a strong El Niño event in 2026, describing it as a “super El Niño” expected to influence rainfall patterns and raise temperatures.

NEMA outlined several measures individuals and communities can adopt. These include preparing for extreme heat by staying hydrated, avoiding direct sun between 11 am and 4 pm, wearing light clothing and checking on children, the elderly and other vulnerable people.

The agency also advised Nigerians to conserve water by fixing leaks, storing clean water in covered containers and keeping the environment clean. On food security, it recommended storing enough food for emergencies, supporting local farming, protecting livestock and taking advantage of agricultural support programmes.

Other recommendations include maintaining good hygiene to prevent disease, using drought-resistant crops, limiting outdoor activities during peak heat hours, joining community preparedness efforts and staying informed through official updates from NEMA, NiMet and trusted media channels.