Super El Niño Could Impact Western Ski Season
Super El Niño Could Impact Western Ski Season
US · Published Oct 6, 2026
• As the 2026-2027 ski season approaches, meteorologists are closely monitoring the strengthening Super El Niño, which could significantly influence snowfall patterns across the western United States. According to NOAA, sea surface temperature anomalies in the eastern equatorial Pacific have already exceeded +3.0°C (5.4°F) in recent weeks, with a 69% chance of this event surpassing the strength of previous El Niño events since
• Historically, El Niño winters have favored southern ski resorts in California, Colorado, and Utah, but the variability of such events makes precise predictions challenging.

Impact & Risks

The Super El Niño could lead to uneven snowfall distribution across the western U.S., with southern ski resorts potentially benefiting from increased precipitation, while northern regions may experience warmer and drier conditions. This variability could impact ski tourism and local economies dependent on winter sports. Additionally, warmer temperatures may affect snow quality and accumulation, posing challenges for ski resorts and winter recreation enthusiasts.

Related News