Nearly half of the world’s children (1.1 billion) are now exposed to at least three overlapping climate hazards, threatening their health, education, and survival, according to a new UNICEF report.

Almost every child in the world faces at least one climate hazard, while more than four million could face as many as six overlapping threats, the report warns.

The Children’s Climate Risk Report 2026 maps children’s exposure to the eight most frequent climate threats, including coastal floods, droughts, extreme heat, fires, heatwaves, riverine floods, sand and dust storms, and tropical storms.

“The lives of children continue to be upended by the impact of heatwaves, wildfires, droughts, and floods,” said UNICEF executive director Catherine Russell. “Half of the world’s children are now living with at least three overlapping climate threats shaping their daily lives.”

Drought, extreme heat, and heatwaves are the most widespread combination of climate hazards, with over 296 million children living in areas exposed to all three conditions, according to the findings. The second most common combination of drought, extreme heat, and tropical storms leaves more than 115 million children worldwide exposed to these overlapping threats.

High-income countries are not immune to overlapping climate shocks. In Italy, for example, more than 6 million children are exposed to prolonged heatwaves and drought, the data show.

“This analysis can help governments and decision-makers plan better and invest more effectively in resilient services,” said Russell. “When we strengthen health and education systems, and improve infrastructure with children in mind, we protect them from today’s climate threats and help secure their future.”

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