California is facing an unusually high risk of powerful winter storms as a record breaking El Niño develops in the Pacific Ocean.
The exceptionally strong El Niño is expected to increase the flow of moisture laden storms toward California, particularly from December onward. Scientists warn that the pattern could bring heavier rainfall flooding and increased coastal erosion.
The state is especially sensitive to Pacific Ocean conditions and the current El Niño is considered unprecedented in the modern record. California declared a statewide emergency last month amid concerns about the potential impacts.
The strongest effects are expected later in the fall and winter, when atmospheric patterns could direct more moisture toward the West Coast. Along with intense storms, the state could face greater risks of flooding and damage to coastal infrastructure.
Scientists are also monitoring the event because its effects could continue into 2027, potentially making the upcoming winter an unusually active period for extreme weather in California.