The 2026 El Niño is expected to bring about unprecedented extreme weather patterns. Forecasting models are unable to forecast these patterns currently. It will may cause conditions that are unlike past seasons. Forecasters say the lack of data makes it more difficult to predict storms, droughts, and heatwaves. Scientists observe sea surface temperatures in the Pacific. They anticipate impacts arriving over the subsequent period. Without good predictions, governments and communities need to stay alert to multiple consequences. Researchers hope to improve their tools as new data becomes available. Right now, uncertainty is the primary aspect of the 2026 El Niño.