California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a statewide emergency Monday as the state prepares for a potentially historic El Niño expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds, flooding, landslides and coastal hazards this winter.
The declaration allows state agencies to accelerate preparations and position resources ahead of severe weather.
Federal forecasters say El Niño is strengthening, with more than a 90% chance of a very strong event during the Northern Hemisphere fall and winter.
California officials are preparing traffic-control equipment, flood-fighting supplies and emergency resources, while the California National Guard is being readied for potential flood response and search-and-rescue operations.
Coastal communities including Laguna Beach, Dana Point and Carlsbad have already declared local emergencies following erosion and storm-related damage. State officials are urging residents to assess flood risks, prepare emergency supplies and stay alert as winter approaches.
Related Tweet:
#BREAKING California declares state of emergency ahead of historic El Niño season https://t.co/keQb8JaOSV
— ABC7 Eyewitness News (@ABC7) September 21, 2026
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