An exceptionally strong El Niño, expected to peak later this year, could set the stage for drought conditions across the Plains lasting well into the end of the decade, according to AccuWeather. Climate experts say there is a 70 percent chance the event reaches “Super El Niño” status. While El Niño often brings increased rainfall to the southern United States, history shows that major events can be followed by several years of drier-than-normal weather across the Plains.
“After El Niño ends, the following two to three years can end up being significantly drier in parts of the Plains from Texas into the Dakotas,” said Paul Pastelok, chief long-range forecaster. “The stronger the upcoming El Niño conditions get, the longer it takes for weather patterns to return to their historical average.”
Drought conditions are already worsening. Nebraska, Wyoming, Colorado, and Oklahoma have all seen sharp increases in areas classified as extreme drought compared to a year ago.
NAFB news service
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