The United Nations has warned of the danger of widespread famine in Yemen amid an economic meltdown and fighting that threaten the lifeline of supplies for civilians.

Updating the UN Security Council on the humanitarian situation in Yemen, UN Undersecretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Mark Lowcock said the situation has deteriorated in an alarming way in recent weeks.

He said humanitarian situation approaching a tipping point, beyond which it will be impossible to prevent massive loss of life as a result of widespread famine across the country.