El Niño to Bring Wetter Fall to Southwest, Drier Conditions in Northeast
El Niño to Bring Wetter Fall to Southwest, Drier Conditions in Northeast
US · Published Aug 11, 2026
El Niño is expected to significantly influence weather patterns across the United States this fall, according to AccuWeather forecasts (Newsweek, 2026-08-10).
Wetter-than-normal conditions are anticipated in the Southwest, including California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah, and New Mexico, as well as the Gulf Coast and Southeast.

Impact & Risks

The strengthening El Niño could lead to increased flood risks in the Southwest and Southeast, while drought conditions may worsen in the northern Plains, Upper Midwest, and parts of the Northeast. Moderate flood risks are highlighted for regions such as Texas, the lower Mississippi Valley, and the Deep South. Tornado activity is also expected, with 50 to 70 tornadoes forecast for September and October, and 45 to 65 in November. These weather shifts could disrupt agricultural activities, particularly in areas with poor harvest conditions like eastern Texas and the lower Mississippi Valley.

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