A super El Niño is developing

The Pacific Ocean is warming faster and earlier than usual, potentially creating the strongest El Niño on record. Extreme weather is predicted through early 2027.

What El Niño actually is

El Niño occurs when the Pacific Ocean is warmer than normal, shifting atmospheric circulation worldwide. This creates atypical weather patterns across different regions.

Super El Niño means bigger storms

Super El Niños have stronger influence on large-scale weather patterns than regular El Niños. This year's event is likely intensified by climate change.

Southwest faces heavy rain and floods

Southern California and parts of the Southwest are predicted to experience a wetter winter with greater potential for heavy rain, flooding, mudslides and debris flows.

Pacific Northwest gets warmer, drier

El Niño could mean a warmer and drier winter overall for the Pacific Northwest, though individual storms can still bring significant rain, wind and mountain snow.

South faces severe thunderstorms

Winter could be wetter in the southern U.S. with increased potential for heavy rain, flooding and severe thunderstorms. Cold air can bring ice, freezing rain or snow causing power outages and property damage.

Water damage is the overlooked risk

Heavy rainfall can overwhelm drainage systems and expose weak points around roofs and foundations, even in homes outside flood zones. Home condition determines how well it survives the same storm.

“A home doesn't have to be in a flood zone to experience water damage.”

Clean gutters and check your roof

Start maintenance now. Clean gutters, add downspout extensions, inspect roofing for damaged shingles and flashing, and trim hazardous branches away from the roof.

“Five minutes of preparation on a sunny day can prevent hours of headaches during a storm.”

Seal cracks and test backup systems

Seal exterior cracks around windows and doors, check weather stripping, test your sump pump and backup generator. Add smart water sensors near water heaters and in basement corners.

Update insurance and create a plan

Review your insurance policy to ensure coverage matches your weather risks. Remember, flooding isn't typically covered by standard policies. Create an evacuation plan and emergency kit with essentials.

Prepare, don't panic

Understanding your local risks and taking simple steps before bad weather arrives is the best approach. You can't control the weather, but you can control how prepared your property is.

“A strong El Niño doesn't mean every homeowner is going to experience a disaster.”