El Niño is officially here, and scientists say it will be particularly strong with widespread impacts

https://i.cbc.ca/ais/6e3773ee-5384-49a1-9a22-2ef4ff931f7b,1781192800120/full/max/0/default.jpg?im=Crop%2Crect%3D%280%2C25%2C1834%2C1031%29%3BResize%3D%28620%29" title="This image shows the anomalous warm water stretching from South America into the central Pacific Ocean, indicative of an emerging El Niño.

Forecasts are calling for a particularly strong El Niño event this year that is likely to peak in the fall." width="620" />

El Niño, nature's chaotic climate agent, has formed in a warmed-up Pacific Ocean and is expected to grow to historic strength, meteorologists said Thursday.