The likelihood of an unusually wet winter in California—and the risk of flooding in coastal and inland areas—continues to increase, according to University of California climate scientist Daniel Swain. The researcher said he was “officially concerned” about the impacts of an outsized El Niño, the periodic warming of the tropical eastern Pacific that is reaching record levels this year.
“With a forecast like this, it's hard to imagine a clearer early warning of a potentially difficult winter in California,” Swain said. “The warning lights are flashing in California and beyond.” Together with scientists from the California Institute for Water Resources and the university's Cooperative Extension, he compiled a list of actions to prepare for a range of impacts, from severe flooding to prolonged power outages.
“The point is not to scare people for no reason,” Swain clarified. “It's to talk about the potentially significant things that could happen in the near future, so we can improve outcomes if they do happen.” The first steps involve getting informed and identifying risks: residents are urged to learn the basics about El Niño, use the state Office of Emergency Services' MyHazards website to check whether their area is prone to flooding, landslides or tsunamis, and share the information with their families and neighbors.
Particular emphasis is placed on flood insurance. Most homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage, and renters insurance does not include it either. In addition, there is usually a 30-day waiting period before a National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policy takes effect. Experts therefore advise those interested to act immediately by contacting their insurance agent or using FEMA's website.
Preparing a property includes clearing gutters, drains and culverts and removing dead branches and leaves from the yard to reduce the risk of flooding and debris being carried into stormwater. Residents are encouraged to take advantage of the dry weather forecast for the coming weeks, sign up for local emergency alerts through the Ready California platform and develop a family communication plan in case family members are separated, as outlined in the guide at ready.gov.
Two other key steps involve preparing supplies: a “go bag” with copies of identification documents, insurance policies and property deeds, cash and a list of medications for people and animals, and a “stay box” in case the family cannot leave home. The box should contain water, food and medication for at least three days, as well as flashlights, batteries and power banks, since severe storms may lead to power and water outages lasting several days or impassable roads.
For more details, the public is directed to Ready California's “Disaster Preparedness Guide,” available in 16 languages. Finally, the National Weather Service offers a reminder of what to do—and what not to do—during and after a major flood. Two critical warnings stand out: never attempt to drive on flooded roads, as the speed and depth of the water can be deadly, and beware of standing water, which conceals pathogens and chemicals and can even carry an electrical current from downed power lines.
Additional material for coastal communities, farmers and ranchers, along with links to monitor conditions in real time, is available on the California Institute for Water Resources website.
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