El Niño Could Intensify New Jersey's Winter Storms
El Niño Could Intensify New Jersey's Winter Storms
US · Published Nov 6, 2026
• New Jersey is bracing for a potentially active winter storm season due to a strengthening El Niño event, which is expected to persist into early
• According to Rutgers University state climatologist John Krasting, this year's El Niño is exceptionally strong, with sea surface temperature anomalies in the tropical Pacific reaching 2.5°C (4.5°F) above average. This qualifies as a 'Super El Niño,' a rare phenomenon that has occurred only five times since

Impact & Risks

The potential for an active coastal storm season poses significant risks to New Jersey's coastal communities. The September nor’easter caused severe beach erosion, with some areas, such as Holgate on Long Beach Island, experiencing the worst damage since Superstorm Sandy. This erosion has weakened natural defenses like sand dunes, increasing the risk of coastal flooding and property damage during future storms. Additionally, the stronger subtropical jet stream associated with El Niño could lead to more frequent and intense storms, bringing heavy rainfall and exacerbating flood risks. Inland areas may also experience increased precipitation, though the impacts are expected to be less severe compared to the coastline.

Related News