A “super El Niño” could take shape as early as June, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC), potentially driving unusual and extreme weather patterns across the globe.
El Niño refers to a climate phenomenon in which surface waters in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean become significantly warmer than normal. This warming disrupts atmospheric circulation, setting off a chain reaction that can alter weather far beyond the Pacific region.
While Quebec is geographically distant from the Pacific, forecasters say the province is not immune to these effects. Western Canada could see heightened risks of drought and wildfires, while southern Quebec’s weather is more likely to be influenced indirectly through Atlantic circulation patterns.
Experts also warn that, combined with ongoing global warming, a strong El Niño increases the chances of extreme weather in southern Quebec. The event may also push global temperatures to record highs over the next year.
Officials say it is still too early to determine how summer rainfall will be affected, but they urge Canadians to stay informed as forecasts evolve.
