North Pacific cyclone frequency, intensity and proximity to the receiving stations (track) in the two ENSO winters that contribute most strongly to the variability of precipitation are examined along with the regional scale circulation and sea surface temperatures (SSTs) prevailing during those winters. During winter 1982/83, the number of cyclones was not significantly different from average, but they were much more intense and moved closer to the receiving stations than average. In 1976/77 there were far fewer cyclones than average. In both winters, the effect of ENSO on precipitation was moderated by the cyclone characteristics and regional atmospheric circulation and SST patterns that prevailed. ¿ 1998 American Geophysical Union