April was the hottest ever (NOAA)

We might not officially be in an El Niño climate state yet, but we're close.  And while we're waiting, according to the esteemed National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration of the U.S.A., April 2014, globally, was the hottest ever.  

Global analysis - April 2014

" The combined average temperature over global land and ocean surfaces for April 2014 tied with 2010 as the highest on record for the month, at 0.77°C (1.39°F) above the 20^th century average of 13.7°C (56.7°F). "

So I'm thinking that even if the El Niño ends up being a normal-sized one (as some are now forecasting), not a super-sized one (as some had previously forecast), any extra heat it contributes will be added to what is already shaping up to be a near-record or record year.  So that, I would think, would insure a true hottest year ever.  And we need that to happen (more on that later).  Meanwhile, California and the desert Southwest needs El Niño for the rain and snow that is desperately needed.