tropical Pacific

The 2023-24 El Niño is described as record-shattering, with analysis of its wide-ranging effects on global temperatures, weather patterns and ecosystems. The event has driven exceptional ocean warming in the tropical Pacific, contributing to record global heat, shifts in rainfall, droughts and flooding in various regions, and stress on fisheries and agriculture. Commentators are weighing how much of the recent temperature surge should be attributed to El Niño versus longer-term climate change.

A New York Times opinion piece warns that the current strong El Niño, a warming of the tropical Pacific that shifts global weather patterns, is set to drive severe conditions including heatwaves, droughts, floods and storms across many regions. The author urges governments and the public to prepare now for the disruption, arguing that early planning could limit the damage as the phenomenon reaches full strength in the coming months.

Hurricane Polo is churning in the Pacific off Mexico's coast, with forecasters warning that heavy rain could trigger flooding and mudslides affecting millions of people in coastal areas. At the same time, Tropical Storm Rachel has formed nearby in the basin, keeping two storm systems active at once and prompting residents and authorities to brace for dangerous surf, rainfall and possible evacuations.

The US National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service is highlighting the outlook for a very strong El Nino in 2026-2027. The agency says an unusually warm tropical Pacific Ocean could reshape weather patterns worldwide, with potential effects on rainfall, droughts, storms and temperatures across multiple continents in the coming years.

Tropical Storm Rachel has formed off Mexico's southwest coast, according to US forecasters. The storm's emergence comes as the Pacific hurricane season continues to be monitored closely, and residents along the Mexican coast are watching for updates on its projected path and strength. Details on expected landfall or impact were not immediately provided.

The Guardian has published an explainer on El Niño, the periodic warming of sea surface temperatures in the tropical Pacific that can drive droughts, floods and heatwaves across the globe. The piece outlines what causes the phenomenon, how it disrupts weather patterns, and what steps communities and governments can take to reduce the risks it poses.

Hawaii is facing its third near miss from a tropical storm this season, according to an Atlantic report on an unusually crowded Pacific hurricane season. Forecasters note the central Pacific has seen an exceptional number of storms tracking close to the islands, raising questions about whether climate patterns are making such close calls more frequent. Residents and officials are watching each new system warily as the season continues.

Tropical Storm Rachel has formed off Mexico's Pacific coast, with forecasters warning of life-threatening surf along nearby shorelines. Authorities and weather services are urging beachgoers and boaters to stay out of the water as rough seas and rip currents pose a danger. The storm is being monitored for further development and potential coastal impacts.

Tropical Storm Rachel is being tracked on live weather maps as it moves across the Pacific. Forecasters are monitoring its projected path and wind strength, with updates issued as new data comes in. Residents in potentially affected coastal areas are watching closely for warnings about rainfall, strong winds and possible storm surge.

The National Hurricane Center in Miami is monitoring Tropical Storm Fay in the Atlantic while Hurricane Polo moves on a path toward Mexico's Pacific coast. Forecasters are watching both systems closely for potential impacts on coastal areas, with residents in affected regions advised to stay informed as tracks and intensity forecasts are updated.

Tropical Storm Polo has strengthened in the Pacific and is forecast to approach Mexico's coast, with moisture expected to spread into the southwestern United States. Forecasters warn the system could bring heavy rain and flooding to Mexico before its remnants soak parts of the Southwest US. Residents in affected areas are being urged to monitor official updates as the storm's path becomes clearer.

Forecasters are tracking continued tropical activity in the Eastern Pacific while monitoring a new area of interest in the Atlantic. The update highlights two basins remaining watchful at the same time, with the Eastern Pacific keeping an active pattern and the Atlantic development zone being observed for possible organization. Details on timing, strength and tracks have not been released.

Tropical Storm Nolo has accelerated on a westward track, prompting officials to cancel the Tropical Storm Watch for Maui. The downgrade means the island no longer faces an imminent threat of tropical-storm conditions as the storm moves away. Residents are advised to monitor official updates as Nolo continues across the central Pacific and forecasters track its changing path and intensity.