Super El Niño Expected to Amplify Global Weather Extremes
A record-breaking Super El Niño is underway, with Pacific Ocean sea surface temperatures averaging 2.7°C (4.9°F) above normal as of early June 2026, according to the Climate Prediction Center and ClimateBrink. These temperatures are forecast to peak at nearly 4°C (7°F) above average by November. This phenomenon is expected to disrupt global weather patterns, leading to warmer and wetter conditions in some regions and drier, more fire-prone conditions in others. In the U.S., New England is likely to experience a warmer and wetter winter with less snow, while the Pacific Northwest may face a drier winter, extending wildfire risks. Meanwhile, California could see an increase in atmospheric rivers, raising concerns about flooding and landslides. Globally, regions like Indonesia and Australia may face drought and wildfire risks, while parts of South America could experience significant flooding.