NOAA Predicts Warm Fall and Potentially 'Very Strong' El Niño Winter
NOAA Predicts Warm Fall and Potentially 'Very Strong' El Niño Winter
US · Published Aug 3, 2026
The NOAA Climate Prediction Center has released its latest seasonal outlook, forecasting above-normal temperatures across most of the United States from August through October.
The strongest warm signals are expected in the Northwest, southwestern Texas, and parts of the Southeast.

Impact & Risks

Above-normal temperatures could extend summer-like conditions in many regions, particularly in the Northwest, southwestern Texas, and parts of the Southeast. Wetter-than-normal conditions are expected in the Southwest, Rockies, Plains, and parts of the Mississippi, Ohio, and Tennessee valleys, which may lead to localized flooding risks. The potential for a 'very strong' El Niño could bring stormier winter weather to the southern U.S., increasing the likelihood of rain and snow. However, snowfall may decrease in areas such as the Great Lakes, northern Rockies, and interior New England. Travelers, homeowners, and winter-sports enthusiasts should prepare for possible sharp seasonal shifts.

Related News