Governor Declares State of Emergency Today Due to El Niño
Gov. Gavin Newsome proclaimed a state of emergency today to better prepare California for anticipated heavy rains this fall and winter due to El Niño.
The proclamation is designed “to protect communities, stage critical resources, and strengthen readiness before severe weather intensifies,” according to the press release. In addition, “today’s emergency proclamation mobilizes state resources and streamlines procurement to prepare for El Niño’s anticipated impacts, like strong storms and coastal flooding. Among the actions ordered, the emergency proclamation directs state agencies to lead the state’s flood-risk-reduction efforts, stage flood-fighting supplies such as sandbags and pumps, and pre-position other critical equipment.”
The press release is available here, and the proclamation can be found here.
The announcement’s advice for residents is below:
How Californians can prepare
El Niño does not guarantee a wet winter or any particular storm, but it heightens the risk of strong storms in California. Californians should prepare now for the possibility of heavy rain, snow, and flooding:
Sign up for alerts. Get local emergency alerts here and follow trusted sources.
Know your flood risk. Find out whether your home or workplace is in a flood-prone area or downslope of an area recently affected by wildfire, where heavy rain can increase the risk of flooding, debris flows, and mudslides.
Stay informed. Pay attention to weather forecasts and sign up for emergency alerts from your city or county. Conditions can change quickly during major storms, so follow instructions from local emergency officials.
Have an evacuation plan. Know where you would go and how you would get there if you need to leave quickly. Keep an emergency kit ready, including plans, medications, and supplies for pets and other animals.
Never drive through floodwater. Water on flooded roads can be deeper and faster-moving than it appears, and roadways may be damaged or washed out beneath the water. Turn around and find another route.
