Los Angeles County Prepares for Potential El Niño Storms

Los Angeles County Prepares for Potential El Niño Storms (Photo – Office of Hilda Solis)

Los Angeles County officials are preparing for potentially heavier rainfall, high winds, flooding, coastal flooding, landslides and debris flows as El Niño conditions are expected to develop in California.

By News Desk

Los Angeles County Board Chair and First District Supervisor Hilda L. Solis issued a local emergency proclamation ahead of the 2026–27 storm season. The proclamation, ratified by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, is intended to strengthen coordination among county departments, cities, public safety agencies and state and federal partners.

“El Niño could bring heavier rainfall and increase the risk of flooding, landslides and debris flows across Los Angeles County, and we cannot wait for the first storm to act,” Solis said. “This proclamation strengthens our ability to coordinate resources and respond quickly, but preparation starts now.”

The proclamation gives the County greater flexibility to act quickly as conditions develop, including accelerating the procurement of critical supplies, coordinating mutual aid and seeking state and federal assistance when needed.

“A major storm does not stop at jurisdictional boundaries,” Solis said. “County departments, cities, public safety agencies and our state and federal partners must be ready to work together when conditions change and the demands on our communities increase.”

Through the Office of Emergency Management and Countywide Communications, county departments are strengthening emergency-response and communications systems. The Department of Public Works is inspecting and maintaining flood-control infrastructure, roads and other critical facilities while preparing sandbag distribution sites. Officials also are monitoring the potential for high winds, coastal flooding, landslides, debris flows and damage to roads and other infrastructure.

The Fire Department, Sheriff’s Department, Department of Homeless Services and Housing, Department of Aging and Disabilities, and other agencies are preparing for possible evacuations, emergency shelter, outreach and other needs.

L.A. County Board Chair Hilda L. Solis and County officials at the press (Photo – Office of Hilda Solis)conference

County officials also are preparing to assist people who may face greater risks or barriers to safety during severe weather, including people experiencing homelessness, older adults, people with disabilities, low-income families and residents living in flood-prone, coastal or post-fire areas.

Residents can sign up for emergency alerts at alert.lacounty.gov, check the Public Works road-closure page, and learn about potential flood, mudflow and debris-flow risks in their communities. People living near hillsides, canyons, recent burn areas or flood-prone locations are encouraged to make evacuation plans and identify where they would go if they needed to leave quickly.

Residents should clear leaves and debris from gutters, downspouts and nearby storm drains; inspect roofs for leaks; and take steps to reduce potential water damage. Sandbags are available at county distribution sites before heavy rain arrives. The Public Works Sandbag Dashboard can help residents locate a distribution site.

The County recommends keeping enough food, water, medications and other essential supplies to last up to 10 days. Residents are also encouraged to check on neighbors who may need additional assistance during an emergency.

For property-specific preparedness guidance, residents can call Los Angeles County Public Works at 800-933-0930 to speak with an engineer.

People experiencing homelessness may be especially vulnerable during severe rain, flooding, high winds, cold temperatures and other extreme weather. Department of Homeless Services and Housing outreach teams are connecting people experiencing homelessness with safe, warm shelter ahead of winter storms.

Anyone who knows someone who needs assistance can call 2-1-1. Additional preparedness information, emergency updates and resources are available at ready.lacounty.gov.