US Records Hottest March in 132 Years Amid Forecasts of Strong El Niño

35 degrees Fahrenheit) above the 20th-century normal. 9 degrees Celsius set in March 2012, making it the most abnormally hot month in 132 years of records for the Lower 48 states. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) released these figures on April 13, 2026.

4 degrees Fahrenheit) above the 20th-century average, nearly matching the typical daytime high for April. 57 degrees Fahrenheit) above normal. Six of the top 10 most abnormally hot months in US history have occurred in the last decade.

More than 19,800 daily temperature records for heat were broken across the country in March, according to meteorologist Guy Walton, who analyzes NOAA data. This heat followed the hottest winter on record and the lowest snow year. Forecasts suggest a brewing El Niño event could reach superstrength, potentially increasing global warmth over the next year.

Marine Heat Waves and Tropical Cyclones A study published in Science Advances on April 11, 2026, examined 1,600 tropical cyclones that made landfall since 1981 and found that those passing over marine heat waves were more likely to intensify rapidly.

Marine heat waves are defined as long-lasting areas of ocean water in the top 10% of historical temperatures. The study reported that such events contributed to 60% more disasters causing at least $1 billion in inflation-adjusted damage upon landfall.

These marine heat waves affect more than half of landfalling tropical cyclones and are occurring closer to land and more frequently, according to the researchers.

Warmer ocean water provides fuel for hurricane intensification. The findings could assist forecasters, emergency officials, and planners in preparing for future storms. > "These marine heat waves affect more than half of landfalling tropical cyclones.

Examples from Recent Hurricanes The study highlighted hurricanes Helene and Milton from 2023 as examples where warmer oceans fueled rapid intensification.

Both storms made landfall on the west coast of Florida within weeks of each other. The researchers noted that such cascades of intensified hurricanes could become more common with hotter oceans. Hamed Moftakhari, a coastal engineering professor at the University of Alabama, contributed to the analysis of compound hazards.

The study emphasized that marine heat waves are increasing due to climate change and warmer oceans overall. This amplification of storm damage underscores risks for coastal areas.

Broader Climate Context The March heat in the US continues a pattern of elevated temperatures.

NOAA data shows the extent of deviation in March 2026 surpassed any prior month. The potential El Niño development adds to expectations of sustained warmth. Meteorologists monitor these trends for their implications on weather patterns.

The volume of broken records in March highlights the persistence of heat into spring. Global ocean temperatures play a key role in both regional heat and storm intensity.