NOAA Forecasts Warmer Winter

NOAANational Oceanic and Atmospheric Administrationagency in the United States Federal Government forecast a warmer winter for much of the U.S. northern tier, with a very strong El Niño expected to shape weather from December through February. Its outlook favors wetter-than-average conditions across much of the southern U.S., from California and the Southwest to the Gulf states and East Coast, while much of the South is expected to have near-normal temperatures. El Niño warms parts of the tropical Pacific, often pushing the jet stream south and east. National Weather ServiceNational Weather ServiceU.S. forecasting agency of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Director Ken GrahamKen GrahamAmerican meteorologist said rain on dry ground can cause flash floods and mudslides. NOAA’s outlook does not predict snowfall amounts. Strong El Niño winters still vary.