El Niño is a climate phenomenon that significantly influences global weather patterns. - It occurs every two to seven years, lasting 9-12 months, with warmer Pacific waters.
- Impacts include wetter conditions in the southern U.S. and milder weather in the north.
- NOAA uses advanced technology like buoys and satellites for forecasting. - The phenomenon can cause droughts in some regions and heavy rainfall in others.
Understanding El Niño helps communities prepare for its varied effects on agriculture, fisheries, and weather extremes.