Historic El Niño to Impact Northern New York Winter
Historic El Niño to Impact Northern New York Winter
US · Published Oct 13, 2026
• A historic El Niño event is developing in the Pacific Ocean, expected to significantly influence global weather patterns this winter.
• According to Samantha Borisoff, a climatologist with the Northeast Regional Climate Center, this phenomenon involves the warming of equatorial Pacific waters and an atmospheric response that alters weather systems worldwide.

Impact & Risks

Northern New York is likely to see reduced snowfall, particularly from lake-effect snow, as colder air remains locked further north. This could impact winter recreation and water resources in the region. Warmer temperatures may prolong the period during which lakes remain unfrozen, potentially leading to isolated heavy snow events if cold air does arrive. The East Coast may face an increased risk of nor’easters, which could bring heavy precipitation and strong winds. However, the exact impacts will depend on the strength and variability of this El Niño event.

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