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Polar vortex stirring. How will it, El Niño affect winter 2026 in NC?

Polar vortex stirring. How will it, El Niño affect winter 2026 in NC?

The polar vortex and super El Niño can affect one another, changing winter conditions. Here's how North Carolina could be affected.
Rapid ReadRapid Read
El Niño Event Expected to Intensify, Causing Diverse Weather Extremes Across U.S. and Globally

El Niño Event Expected to Intensify, Causing Diverse Weather Extremes Across U.S. and Globally

The current El Niño event is projected to become unusually strong, with the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) indicating a greater than 90% chance of it reaching very strong intensity during the Northern Hemisphere autumn and winter. The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) has also warned that this phenomenon will significantly alter rainfall and temperature patterns globally, increasing the risk of floods, droughts, and extreme heat in various regions. El Niño, a natural climate pattern, involves the weakening or reversal of trade winds across the tropical Pacific, causing warm water to spread eastward. This shift in ocean temperatures disrupts atmospheric circulation, leading to diverse weather impacts. For instance, while some regions may experience increased rainfall and storms, others will face reduced rainfall and heightened drought risk, as the event redistributes atmospheric heating and moisture.
USA TodayUSA Today
Hurricanes Polo and Nolo threaten Mexico and Hawaii: Live updates

Hurricanes Polo and Nolo threaten Mexico and Hawaii: Live updates

Polo is expected to make landfall in Mexico, while forecasters predict Nolo will reach major hurricane status as it reaches Hawaii.
ReutersReuters
Rising sea destroys homes, erases beaches in California. Is worse to come?

Rising sea destroys homes, erases beaches in California. Is worse to come?

By Daniel Trotta CARLSBAD, California, Sept 25 (Reuters) - In Malibu, the Pacific Ocean opened a sinkhole near the home of movie star Nicolas Cage and wreaked havoc on beachfront property.
1Weather1Weather
No Atlantic Hurricanes Yet in 2026 Amid El Niño

No Atlantic Hurricanes Yet in 2026 Amid El Niño

The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season has been unusually quiet, with no hurricanes forming as of late September. Six named storms—Arthur, Bertha, Cristobal, Dolly, Edouard, and Fay—have developed, but none reached hurricane strength, which requires sustained winds of 119 km/h (74 mph). This is significantly below the average for this time of year, which typically sees about 10 named storms, four hurricanes, and two major hurricanes based on 1991–2020 data. Forecasters attribute the calm season to El Niño conditions, which tend to suppress hurricane activity in the Atlantic. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) had predicted a below-normal season, with a 75% chance of fewer storms. The season officially runs until November 30, leaving room for potential late-season activity, particularly in the Gulf of Mexico and along the U.S. East Coast.
1Weather1Weather
El Niño Winter Brings U.S. Flooding and Power Risks

El Niño Winter Brings U.S. Flooding and Power Risks

The ongoing El Niño weather pattern is expected to significantly impact the United States this winter, with varying effects across regions. According to NOAA, El Niño typically shifts the Pacific jet stream, leading to wetter and cooler conditions in the southern U.S., while the northern states may experience milder and drier weather. California and the Southwest are likely to see increased rainfall and mountain snowfall, while the Gulf Coast and Southeast could face severe thunderstorms and tornadoes. These weather changes are attributed to warmer-than-average sea-surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean, which alter atmospheric circulation and storm tracks. The 2026-2027 winter is predicted to be a strong El Niño season, with a high likelihood of extreme weather events, including heavy rain, flooding, and power outages.
1Weather1Weather
El Nino Weakens Atlantic Hurricanes in 2026

El Nino Weakens Atlantic Hurricanes in 2026

The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season has been unusually quiet, with only six tropical storms forming as of September 23, none of which have intensified into hurricanes. This marks the first time since satellite tracking began in 1966 that no hurricanes have been recorded this late in the season, according to NOAA. The phenomenon is largely attributed to a strong El Nino event, which is characterized by warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the Pacific Ocean. El Nino disrupts Atlantic storm formation by increasing wind shear and altering atmospheric conditions. Meanwhile, the Pacific Ocean has experienced heightened hurricane activity, with storms forming further east and lasting longer due to favorable conditions. El Nino's global impacts also include extreme weather events such as droughts, floods, and heatwaves, amplified by climate change (DW, 2026).
AP NewsAP News
It's been an intense hurricane season in the Pacific and there's still a long way to go

It's been an intense hurricane season in the Pacific and there's still a long way to go

The hurricane season in the Pacific Ocean already has been very active, thanks to the El Nino weather phenomenon
USA TodayUSA Today
Tropical Storm Nolo could bring all-time record rainfall in Hawaii: Updates

Tropical Storm Nolo could bring all-time record rainfall in Hawaii: Updates

Hawaii is in the crosshairs again as yet another tropical cyclone approaches the Aloha State Thursday.
1Weather1Weather
Super El Niño to Reshape US Winter 2026–2027

Super El Niño to Reshape US Winter 2026–2027

A historic Super El Niño is expected to peak during late fall and winter 2026–2027, with NOAA estimating a 75% chance of record-breaking strength since 1950. This phenomenon, characterized by unusually warm Pacific Ocean waters, is anticipated to significantly alter the jet stream, shifting storm tracks and temperature patterns across the United States. The Pacific Northwest and northern Plains are likely to experience warmer, drier conditions, while the South and Southwest may see increased storms, heavy rain, and potential wintry weather. The Great Lakes and Ohio Valley regions could also trend warmer and drier, though lake-effect snow remains possible. NOAA's forecast highlights above-normal temperatures for much of the northern US and wetter conditions in the southern regions, emphasizing the variability and unpredictability of individual storm events.
1Weather1Weather
Atlantic Hurricane Season Hits 112-Year Dry Spell

Atlantic Hurricane Season Hits 112-Year Dry Spell

The 2026 Atlantic hurricane season has reached a historic milestone, marking the first time since 1914 that the basin has gone until September 21 without producing a hurricane. This unusual inactivity is attributed to the strong El Niño phenomenon, which has introduced drier air and significant upper-level wind shear across the region. NOAA had previously adjusted its seasonal forecast in August, predicting seven to 13 named storms, two to six hurricanes, and zero to two major hurricanes. So far, six named storms have formed, aligning with earlier predictions, but none have reached hurricane strength. With over two months remaining in the season, meteorologists are closely monitoring conditions for potential storm development.
Nashville TennesseanNashville Tennessean
Winter 2026 could include a polar vortex, El Niño hit on Tennessee

Winter 2026 could include a polar vortex, El Niño hit on Tennessee

A strong polar vortex and 'super' El Niño are developing, leaving experts split on how they could Tennessee winter.