El Nino powers up as forecasters predict historic strength and a rainier winter for the US South

NOAA predicts the current El Niño, already moderate in strength, has an 81% chance of becoming 'very strong' by fall, potentially rivaling or exceeding the 1997-1998 event. It is expected to bring rainier winters to the U.S. South, warmer conditions to northern regions, and reduced Atlantic hurricane activity, with impacts amplified by human-caused climate change.