The El Niño weather pattern expected to impact California this year could rank among the strongest ever recorded, according to forecasters. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center reports a 63 percent chance that El Niño conditions will become “very strong” by the end of the year. In addition, forecasters estimate there is an 88 percent likelihood the event will reach at least “strong” status. Climate experts are closely monitoring developments in the tropical Pacific Ocean as ocean temperatures continue to rise. UC climate scientist Daniel Swain says that “something extraordinary could unfold” because of the rapid intensification of El Niño conditions combined with the effects of global warming. Historically, El Niño often brings California wetter-than-normal winters, including more frequent and heavier rainstorms. Those conditions can increase the risk of flooding, mudslides, and other weather-related hazards. Warmer coastal waters may also attract sharks and other marine species closer to shore and inland waterways.
