Record El Niño Could Bring California Floods, Extreme Weather
Record El Niño Could Bring California Floods, Extreme Weather
US · Published Aug 28, 2026
A potentially record-breaking El Niño event is forecast to intensify, with ocean temperatures in the eastern tropical Pacific reaching unprecedented levels for this time of year.
According to Dr.

Impact & Risks

The anticipated El Niño could lead to significant flooding in California, particularly in low-lying areas near the San Francisco Bay, Monterey Bay, and the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. Coastal erosion may threaten infrastructure like roads and rail lines. The Pacific Northwest could face intensified drought and wildfire risks, while the southeastern U.S. may experience heavy rainfall. Hawaii's worsening drought could exacerbate water shortages. Health risks, such as waterborne illnesses and valley fever, may increase in the Southwest due to alternating drought and flood conditions. Urban flooding in areas like South Los Angeles is also a concern.

Related News