California is under a statewide emergency proclamation, issued by Governor Gavin Newsom on Monday, as officials prepare for what they describe as a potentially historic El Niño season. The declaration directs state agencies to mobilize resources and streamline preparations for anticipated severe winter weather.
Forecasters expect El Niño to continue strengthening, with a greater than 90% chance of a very strong event this fall and winter, and a 75% chance it could reach historic strength. The natural climate pattern, characterized by warmer-than-average ocean temperatures in the tropical eastern Pacific, shifts weather patterns and typically brings wetter, more intense winters to California. Studies indicate El Niño events are now over 36% stronger than before the industrial era, with this trend accelerating over the past four decades.
State agencies are tasked with leading flood-risk-reduction efforts, staging flood-fighting supplies such as sandbags and pumps, and pre-positioning other critical equipment. The California National Guard will also assist with emergency response efforts. In addition to physical preparations, the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services and other state agencies are directed to expand multilingual public outreach regarding severe weather preparedness, including information on flooding, emergency alerts, evacuation readiness, and potential power outages.
Officials warn of potential impacts including repeated heavy rain, strong winds, mountain snow, and coastal flooding, as well as landslides, debris flows, and large waves. Laura Hollander of the state Department of Water Resources noted during a virtual media briefing that Southern California, in particular, can potentially expect increased storms, leading to coastal erosion as strong storms make landfall. Large waves predicted for November and December are of particular concern, Hollander stated.
Governor Newsom affirmed the state's readiness, stating, “California is strongest when we look out for one another. That is what this action is about. Giving communities the support they need, giving first responders the tools to do their jobs, and giving families the confidence that their state is ready.” He emphasized early preparation for resident safety. California Natural Resources Secretary Wade Crowfoot added that California is taking steps now to protect communities from a “potentially historic El Niño” due to weather extremes driven by climate change.
Cal OES Director Caroline Thomas Jacobs cautioned residents, stating, “Storms are among the deadliest disasters we face here in California. People underestimate the power of water.”
While the preparedness efforts are underway, a specific dollar amount tied to the initiative was not yet available, according to Brian Ferguson of Cal OES. Officials are urging Californians, including those in Irvine, to prepare early for the severe weather that could characterize the upcoming fall and winter months.
