How can a temperature shift in the tropical Pacific dictate the reliability of Nebraska’s power grid? In this episode, we dive into the far-reaching impacts of El Niño and La Niña on the Plains. We explore how these patterns drive fluctuations in electrical demand and challenge supply—notably by causing the "calm winds" that can cripple wind generation.

Beyond the grid, we examine the agricultural consequences of these weather cycles, from critical spring precipitation patterns to the heightened risks of flash drought. Featuring insights from state climatologists, this episode compares recent seasonal trends with historical data from the early twentieth century to understand how our "new normal" is shifting and what it means for Nebraska's future resilience.