Pacific hurricane region sets record for intense, long-lasting storms

The Pacific hurricane region east of the international date line has set a new record for the duration and intensity of storms, driven by a powerful El Niño weather pattern. Meteorologists use accumulated cyclone energy (ACE), a metric combining wind speed and longevity, to measure these seasons; the region recently surpassed the previous record set in 2018.

Researchers from Colorado State University and the University of Arizona note that El Niño is supercharging these storms by weakening high-altitude vertical winds. In the Pacific, this creates a tailwind effect that allows storms to maintain strength, whereas in the Atlantic, the same pattern creates a headwind that dampens hurricane activity. Warm ocean waters are further fueling the increased intensity of these Pacific storms.