State begins preparations for flooding, powerful storms and coastal impacts before winter weather arrives
Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a statewide emergency Monday as California prepares for an El Niño season that state officials say could reach historic strength.
The proclamation directs agencies to begin staging flood-fighting supplies, preparing roads and critical infrastructure and positioning equipment ahead of potential heavy rain, flooding, landslides and coastal flooding.
The preparations are particularly relevant in coastal Orange County, where large waves, erosion and flooding can become more significant when storms coincide with high tides.
State officials stressed that the strength of El Niño does not determine exactly where individual storms will hit, but are urging Californians to prepare before the winter storm season begins.
Sources
California Governor’s Office; NOAA
