Story perspectives

Monster El Niño drives record heat, curbs Atlantic hurricanes

5/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Model ensembles show Pacific sea-surface temperatures 3 °C above normal, creating a “monster” El Niño not seen since 1877-78.
Scientists say the warming could push global average temperatures to record highs in 2026 and 2027.
Forecasts call for a warm New England summer with intense heat waves, humid nights and more thunderstorms.
El Niño-driven wind shear should suppress Atlantic hurricanes, producing 13 named storms, six hurricanes and two major hurricanes.

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Story summary

Model ensembles show Pacific sea-surface temperatures 3 °C above normal, creating a “monster” El Niño not seen since 1877-78.
Scientists say the warming could push global average temperatures to record highs in 2026 and 2027.
Forecasts call for a warm New England summer with intense heat waves, humid nights and more thunderstorms.
El Niño-driven wind shear should suppress Atlantic hurricanes, producing 13 named storms, six hurricanes and two major hurricanes.