The 2026 El Niño is set to cause new extreme weather patterns. Forecasting models are unable to forecast these patterns at this time. It will may cause conditions that are unlike past seasons. Forecasters note the lack of data makes it harder to guess storms, droughts, and heatwaves. Scientists watch sea surface temperatures in the Pacific. They look for outcomes emerging over the coming months. Without good predictions, governments and communities need to stay alert to various effects. Researchers aim to enhance their methods as new data becomes available. Right now, uncertainty is the main characteristic of the 2026 El Niño.