La Niña has returned, and it’s expected to influence weather across New Jersey through early 2026. The pattern forms when parts of the Pacific Ocean become colder than normal. That shift can ripple through the atmosphere, affecting winds and storms far from the Pacific. When ocean temperatures stay near average, scientists call it ENSO-neutral. The opposite warm phase is known as El Niño.
How Late-Season Storms Could Be Affected
As the Atlantic hurricane season nears its end in late November, New Jersey could face a slightly higher chance of storms. La Niña tends to reduce wind shear over the Atlantic, which can make it easier for tropical storms and hurricanes to form. By mid-October, 11 named storms had already developed, including four hurricanes. Forecasters say any late-season storms may feel La Niña’s effects, even though this year’s event is expected to be weak. Mild La Niña patterns can still influence when storms form and how strong they get.
What Winter Might Look Like in NJ
Winter in New Jersey is still uncertain. Temperatures may run warmer than average, following trends across much of the East Coast. Rain and snow are harder to predict. The state sits between regions expected to see above-average rainfall in the Ohio Valley and below-average precipitation in the Southeast. That pattern is typical during weaker La Niña events.
La Niña’s Impact Across the U.S.
La Niña doesn’t just affect New Jersey. Northern states often see cooler, wetter conditions, while the South tends to be warmer and drier. Shifts in the tropical Pacific move through the atmosphere, influencing weather patterns that can reach New Jersey.
What People Should Know
Even a weak La Niña can affect temperatures and precipitation in New Jersey. Residents should keep an eye on forecasts for late-season storms and winter conditions. While this year’s La Niña isn’t expected to bring extreme weather, it will play a role in shaping conditions for the rest of 2025.
The New Jersey Digest is a new jersey magazine that has chronicled daily life in the Garden State for over 10 years.