El Niño’s strengthening could lead to significant weather impacts across the U.S. and beyond. The southern United States is at risk of repeated heavy rain events, raising concerns about flooding. In the West, including California and the Rockies, an active Pacific storm track could increase snowfall potential. Winter risks include sharp cold snaps and the possibility of storms bringing heavy rain, ice, and snow, particularly in transition zones. These weather patterns may also affect agriculture, energy demand, and tourism-dependent communities, with potential disruptions to crops, utilities, and insurance costs.