How to Prepare for a ‘Super’ El Niño in California

Introduction

California is expected to face a ‘super’ El Niño, bringing heavy rains. Residents and business owners need to prepare in advance. Officials are strengthening hillsides and setting up flood control systems before the rains hit. Forecasters predict a 75% chance this El Niño will be the strongest since 1950, with a nearly 98% chance it will be ‘very strong’ by December. This will bring substantial tropical moisture to Southern California.

Preparations by Los Angeles

Los Angeles is actively planning for El Niño. The Mayor’s office reports ongoing collaboration with the National Weather Service. Efforts focus on reinforcing burn scar areas and minimizing effects of debris flows, flooding, and high winds. L.A. County has been clearing sediment from key reservoirs like San Gabriel to increase capacity and prepare for potential flooding.

Steps for Individuals

• Emergency Alerts: Residents are encouraged by L.A. County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath to sign up for emergency alerts and understand local risks, especially if living near vulnerable areas. Have an evacuation plan ready.
• Roof Inspection: Southern California roofing expert Terry Heller advises checking for leaks, especially if your roof is older than 12 years. Regular maintenance can prevent emergencies during heavy storms. Ensure the roofing company is licensed.
• Drainage Systems: Landscape architect Esther Margulies suggests checking that water drains properly from your yard. If there are issues, consider rain barrels or installing a sump pump. Improving lawn permeability by reducing paving may also help.
• Sandbags: Keep sandbags ready to act as barriers against water entry during intense rainfall. Use L.A. County’s map to find free sandbag distribution sites.
• Tree Inspection: Arborist Alison Lancaster recommends hiring a licensed arborist to inspect tree health and structure to prevent storm damage. Avoid unnecessary tree thinning, which can harm the tree’s structure.
• Planting: For erosion control, plant ground cover like buckwheat. Ensure automatic watering systems are turned off during rains.
• Insurance Check: Consider flood insurance even if you live away from water bodies. Climate changes lead to unexpected flooding. Review your home insurance for water damage coverage and deductibles.
• Car Preparedness: Check your car’s tire tread, windshield wipers, brakes, and lights. Keep your car battery in good condition. In storms, avoid driving into floodwaters.
• Emergency ‘Go Bag’: Prepare a go bag with essentials like clothes, non-perishable food, water, cash, medications, and important documents. Be ready to evacuate swiftly if needed.
• Pet Preparations: Pack a separate go bag for your pet, including food, water, a leash, and recent photos for identification.

Be proactive. Good preparation now can greatly reduce risks during the impending storm season.

Rain can seem harmless, but it can significantly impact roads and safety. Stay prepared and informed.