Warm Pacific Ocean Waters May Trigger Super El Niño in 2026
A significant undersea Kelvin wave, described as a 'freight train of warm water,' is moving across the Pacific Ocean, with temperatures reaching 13.5°F (7.5°C) above average. This phenomenon is increasing the likelihood of a super El Niño event later in 2026, according to The Washington Post. El Niño, characterized by warming of surface ocean waters in the east-central tropical Pacific, could see sea temperatures rise by 5.4°F (3°C) above average, potentially breaking records. The wave, spanning 9,000 miles, is being compared to the 1997-1998 super El Niño, which caused global losses of up to $96 billion. Experts attribute this development to a combination of climate change, recent La Niña events, and a marine heatwave in the North Pacific. The Kelvin wave is expected to reach South America soon, potentially altering global weather patterns into 2027. 
