El Niño and La Niña are phenomena that can both have global impacts on weather, wildfires, ecosystems, and economies. Episodes of El Niño and La Niña typically last nine to 12 months, but can sometimes last for years. El Niño and La Niña events occur every two to seven years, on average, but they don’t occur on a regular schedule.

During El Niño, trade winds weaken. Warm water is pushed back east, toward the west coast of the Americas. The warmer waters cause the Pacific jet stream to move south of its neutral position. With this shift, areas in the northern U.S. and Canada are dryer and warmer than usual. But in the U.S. Gulf Coast and Southeast, these periods are wetter than usual and have increased flooding.

How to Be More Prepared

The best advice to weather El Niño's rain, wind and flooding is to be prepared and stay informed. Government experts recommend you have an emergency kit for your home and car. Your kits should contain food and water for at least 3 days for every family member, a first aid kit, flashlights, radio, wrench, gloves, whistles and sanitation supplies. Don't forget supplies for your pets.