The causes of El NiƱo are still not fully understood, but research suggests that it's a result of a combination of natural climate variability and human-induced climate change. The effects of El NiƱo, however, are well-documented. Some of the most significant impacts include:
El NiƱo is a complex weather phenomenon characterized by the warming of sea surface temperatures in the central Pacific Ocean, near the equator. This warming of ocean water can have significant effects on global climate patterns, leading to droughts in some areas and floods in others. The term "El NiƱo" literally means "The Boy" in Spanish, and it's often referred to as "El NiƱo Navidad" because it typically peaks around Christmas time.