Extreme heat linked to the ongoing El Niño is projected to cause a large rise in heat-related deaths. Reports say Nigeria faces the world’s highest projected death toll from the heat, with an estimated 31,400 additional heat deaths expected. RFI also reports that extreme heat over the coming six months could add up to 67,000 deaths across the Sahel region, placing Nigeria at the top of country-level estimates.
The outlook is presented as a six-month risk period as El Niño conditions bear down on the Sahel and surrounding areas. While both sources focus on heat as the main driver, they frame different geographic scales: one emphasizes Nigeria’s specific projected toll and potential lifesaving measures, while the other highlights the broader regional impact across multiple Sahel countries. The Conversation also points to practical steps such as issuing heat warnings, setting up cooling centres, and strengthening protections for outdoor workers to reduce harm during extreme temperatures.
