The 2026 El Niño is expected to bring about novel extreme weather patterns. Forecasting models are unable to forecast these patterns yet. It will likely bring 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 expect effects to come over the subsequent period. Without good predictions, governments and communities must remain vigilant to multiple consequences. Researchers seek to upgrade their systems as new data is gathered. Right now, uncertainty is the main characteristic of the 2026 El Niño.