Forecasts point to a super El Niño bringing heavy rain, floods, and heat for California

NOAA forecasters say a very strong or “super” El Niño is likely this winter, with a 97% chance of strong or very strong through December and an 81% chance of very strong. For California, especially Southern California, this means a higher likelihood of above‑average rainfall and an increased risk of flash floods and landslides, while heat waves could intensify nationwide as warming oceans provide extra energy. El Niño typically lasts 9–12 months and global impacts vary by region, including drought in parts of Australia and northern South America and the potential for record global temperatures.