It bears the most tender name in meteorology, yet it is the one occupying specialized services this year. ‘El Niño’ means ‘the boy’ in Spanish. Originally, it is a simple warming of the Pacific Ocean. However, the warm water does not stay put; it disrupts winds and rainfall thousands of kilometers away, reaching as far as our shores.
The name comes from Peruvian fishermen who noticed centuries ago that the sea warmed up around Christmas, leading to a scarcity of fish. They named it ‘El Niño’ after the Christ Child. In 1892, Peruvian captain Camilo Carrillo introduced the term to the Geographical Society of Lima. It was in the 20th century that scientists understood this warm current and air pressure variations form a single phenomenon born from the dialogue between ocean and wind.
For 2026-2027, meteorologists predict a strong to very strong episode from October 2026 to February 2027. In Madagascar, it will have two moods: it will be dry and hot in the South, West, and parts of the Highlands, while bringing heavy rains to the North and East, increasing the risk of floods and landslides. The Jirama utility company claims water reserves in Antananarivo will be sufficient, though many households remain skeptical.
The phenomenon also poses significant health and food security risks. Water shortages and flooding increase the threat of diseases like cholera and typhoid, while heat can exacerbate malaria and dengue. In the Grand Sud, an early lean season is expected, with cassava harvests potentially halved. The government estimates the cost of preparedness at approximately 220 million dollars, with measures including new water systems and emergency supplies managed by the BNGRC.
Captured & Published at: 2026-10-21 05:39:06 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.lexpress.mg/2026/10/lenfant-de-noel-partie-1.html