The 2026 El Niño is expected to bring about novel extreme weather patterns. Forecasting models are unable to forecast these patterns at this time. It will may cause conditions that vary from past seasons. Forecasters note the lack of data makes it more difficult to predict storms, droughts, and heatwaves. Scientists watch sea surface temperatures in the Pacific. They anticipate impacts arriving over the subsequent period. Without good predictions, governments and communities must remain vigilant to many impacts. Researchers seek to upgrade their systems as new data is gathered. Right now, uncertainty is the primary aspect of the 2026 El Niño.