As cities prepare for 2026’s super El Niño, some crucial blind spots can’t be ignored

Aging levees and dams are only the beginning of the risks communities face. One of the biggest challenges is helping people manage the heat and storms.

By: Bethany Tietjen, Tufts University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: September 21, 2026

Words: 1,241

Last Updated: 3 weeks, 6 days ago

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By Bethany Tietjen, Tufts University

This year’s El Niño has the potential to be one of the strongest in living memory, and the evidence is showing up around the world.

The U.S. just saw its hottest summer on record in the Lower 48 states. Drought is slowing shipping in the Panama Canal. The Pacific is experiencing an exceptionally busy hurricane season, while the Atlantic is unusually quiet. Those are just …

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