A powerful El Niño event expected to peak this winter could bring comparatively mild weather to New York City, forecasters said Thursday, even as other regions of the United States face increased risks of severe storms and flooding. The World Meteorological Organization has described the system as a "behemoth," with sea surface temperatures potentially reaching more than six times the intensity of a typical El Niño between November and January.

In New York City, the meteorological effects of this strong El Niño are likely to result in an extended autumn-like period lasting into January, according to AccuWeather senior meteorologist Matt Benz. He projected that snowfall totals could be significantly lower than last winter, with estimates ranging from 10 to 20 inches compared to 43 inches during the previous season.

This forecast contrasts with predictions for other parts of the country, where the intensified El Niño is expected to increase the frequency and severity of storms and flooding events. The complex interplay of these weather patterns highlights the varied regional impacts such large-scale climatic phenomena can have across the United States.