El Niño-driven drought in Papua New Guinea a ‘national crisis’ as rivers dry up and local farms fail
An El Niño‑induced drought has turned into a national emergency in Papua New Guinea, with rivers receding and agricultural production collapsing. Authorities report that up to eight million residents face food scarcity, power outages and closed health clinics. The combined impact threatens livelihoods and public health across the country, prompting calls for urgent relief measures.