What People Expect About Earthquakes, Storms and El Niño

People are looking at the coming months and wonder how many strong quakes will happen after August. They expect the number to be lower than the set benchmark. The feeling is that fewer big shakes will be seen worldwide. They say the pattern looks calm and the data points to a quiet period. The worry is that even a small rise could miss the mark.

When it comes to storms, most think a hurricane won't touch Hawaii before the expected time. Even the chance of Tropical Storm Lala becoming a hurricane before landfall is seen as unlikely. They also note that the wind patterns do not favor an early strike. The chance of Lala turning into a hurricane looks slim.

On the other hand, many believe a big El Niño will develop this winter. Experts say the ocean temperatures are rising fast. That makes a strong El Niño more likely. The outlook leans toward a strong event, so hopes are high.

There is also split feeling about where a major quake might strike by the end of August. The debate is lively and people share different maps. Some think Japan will see it, while others point to Indonesia. No one can say for sure which country will feel the shake.