{
  "id": 16662623,
  "title": "El Niño Map Shows Which States Could Be Hit With More Snow This Year",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/26/el-nino-map-shows-which-states-could-be-hit-with-more-snow-this-year",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-26T21:36:13.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Newsweek",
    "slug": "newsweek",
    "url": "https://www.newsweek.com/el-nino-winter-weather-map-snow-states-forecast-12621665"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "A powerful El Niño in the Pacific Ocean is expected to bring mixed weather patterns across the United States this winter. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), nine states are projected to experience above-average snowfall, while others will face unseasonably warm and dry conditions. Meteorologists predict the jet stream will shift southward and eastward, increasing storm activity in the southern region of the country. While heavier rainfall may provide relief to drought-stricken areas, excessive precipitation on dry soil could lead to flash floods and mudslides. The strong El Niño has already broken records for ocean surface temperature anomalies. This year's El Niño is expected to range from strong to very strong through March 2027, significantly altering traditional winter weather patterns. Some states that typically see significant snowfall may experience reduced totals, while others, particularly in the Intermountain West, Southwest, and Central U.S., could see above-average snowfall. The forecast contrasts sharply with last winter, especially in the Intermountain West, where a snow drought affected ski seasons and increased drought concerns. Federal officials warn that heavy rainfall on parched ground poses a heightened risk of flash floods and mudslides before the official start of winter on December 21.",
  "summary": "Nine states are bracing for more snow than they got last year as El Niño continues to strengthen in the Pacific Ocean.",
  "key_points": [
    "Nine states forecast above-average snowfall this winter.",
    "Jet stream shift southward and eastward increases storm activity.",
    "Heavy rainfall risks flash floods and mudslides in dry regions."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}