El Niño's effects vary widely by region. In the Atlantic, it has reduced hurricane activity, sparing coastal areas from potential damage. However, the eastern and central Pacific have seen heightened hurricane activity, with Hawaii experiencing three storms in one season. Coastal areas along the U.S. West Coast may face increased flooding risks due to Kelvin waves raising sea levels by 6–12 inches. Globally, El Niño's contribution to rising temperatures could exacerbate heat-related risks and strain ecosystems. (Source: CNN, 2026-10-14)