The anticipated El Niño could exacerbate existing climate challenges, such as heatwaves in the northern U.S., Southeast Asia, and Australia. Increased precipitation in the southern U.S. may lead to flooding, while drier conditions in the northern Rockies, Great Lakes, and Ohio Valley could strain water resources. Historically, El Niño events have caused significant loss of life and economic damage, as seen in the 1982-83 and 1997 events. The potential for this year's El Niño to rival the strongest on record raises concerns about its impact on vulnerable populations and ecosystems.