Scientists are watching El Niño because it can change weather around the world and affect the Atlantic hurricane season. El Niño means warmer-than-average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific.
Many computer climate models now predict El Niño will develop later this year. Subsurface tropical Pacific waters are currently warmer than normal, which forecasters say is another sign of a developing event. A strong El Niño tends to increase upper-level wind shear over the Atlantic, which can break apart forming storms and may reduce hurricane activity. It can also bring wetter winters to parts of the United States and more storms to the West Coast.
Difficult words
- subsurface — under the surface, below the top layer of water
- develop — to begin or grow in strength over time
- forecaster — a person who predicts the weatherforecasters
- wind shear — change in wind speed or direction with height
- hurricane — a strong tropical storm with very high winds
- temperature — a measure of how hot or cold something istemperatures
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you noticed changes in winter weather or storms where you live?
- How would fewer Atlantic hurricanes change life in coastal areas?
- What simple steps can people take to prepare for wetter winters or more storms?
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