El Niño set to bring wetter winters to US south, drier north
Near-record El Niño will bring wetter winters to the southern United States and drier conditions to the north.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released its winter outlook, dominated by El Niño's influence on weather. El Niño is characterised by above-average ocean temperatures in the tropical Pacific that shift global weather patterns.
El Niño will likely peak in December but affect the entire winter season. Warmer ocean waters increase evaporation, and warmer air holds more moisture, so any storms that form could bring unusually heavy rain and mountain snow to affected regions.
Much of the country is expected to be milder and wetter than average, with the southern tier seeing more storms and cooler weather while northern states turn drier and milder. California faces above-average rainfall and potential for significant inland flooding and mudslides.
NOAA warns communities to plan ahead for the incoming wet season.
- December
- Peak intensity
- Lower 48 states
- Affected region
Why it mattersEl Niño winters can bring destructive flooding and mudslides to vulnerable areas, requiring communities to prepare.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect reported in this story. Australia's El Niño impacts would depend on separate regional forecasts.
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