California Declares State Of Emergency Ahead Of Potentially Historic El Nino Season

September 22, 2026

Los Angeles: California has declared a state of emergency to prepare for a potentially historic El Nino season, with authorities warning of possible winter storms, coastal flooding and other weather-related hazards.

The proclamation will mobilise state resources and accelerate preparations ahead of the expected impacts, according to a statement from the California governor’s office.

The state said the emerging El Nino event is already breaking records and could continue to strengthen, potentially becoming the strongest on record.

California Steps Up Flood And Storm Preparations

Under the emergency proclamation, state agencies have been directed to protect vulnerable communities and prepare roads and critical infrastructure for possible extreme weather.

Authorities will also stockpile emergency supplies and work with local agencies to reduce the risks of flooding, landslides and coastal hazards.

The governor’s office has urged residents to sign up for emergency alerts and prepare evacuation plans in case severe weather affects their communities.

El Nino is a natural climate pattern associated with warmer-than-average ocean temperatures in the tropical eastern Pacific. According to the governor’s office, the phenomenon can alter weather patterns and bring wetter and more intense winters to California.

ECLAC Warns Of Wider Economic Impact

The potential effects of an intense El Nino could extend beyond the United States. The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) has warned that an extreme event could cause economic losses equivalent to at least 2 per cent of the region’s GDP and push an additional 4.8 million people into poverty.

In a report titled The Effects of El Nino in Latin America and the Caribbean and Recommendations for Addressing It, the Santiago-based agency said a high-intensity event could have significant economic, social and productive consequences.

The report highlighted agriculture, fisheries, energy and infrastructure among the sectors that could face major disruption.

Severe Weather Risks Could Persist

ECLAC Executive Secretary Jose Manuel Salazar-Xirinachs warned of potentially severe economic and social consequences if El Nino reaches high intensity.

The agency said the largest economic losses would likely occur during the first year of the event, although its effects could continue for longer. It also warned that falling household incomes could contribute to higher poverty levels towards the end of the decade.

With forecasts pointing to a potentially powerful El Nino, California and other vulnerable regions are stepping up preparations for possible flooding, storms, landslides and disruptions to critical infrastructure.