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California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency ahead of a potentially record-strength El Niño, warning of heavy rain, strong winds, mountain snowfall, flooding, landslides and coastal surges during the coming autumn and winter.
The emergency declaration, issued Monday, September 21, directs state agencies to accelerate preparations for severe weather. Authorities are also pre-positioning emergency equipment, including flood-control supplies, sandbags and drainage pumps, in vulnerable areas.
California officials said the powerful El Niño could bring multiple rounds of heavy rain and storms this season, increasing the risks of flooding, landslides, mudflows, large waves and coastal inundation. Power outages are also possible.
US weather forecasts put the chance of a very strong El Niño this autumn and winter at more than 90%, while Newsom’s office said there is a 75% chance it could become one of the strongest El Niño events on record.
A strong El Niño does not necessarily guarantee record rainfall or snowfall in California. However, the climate pattern typically increases the risk of stronger and more frequent storms across the state, prompting authorities to step up preparations.
Under the emergency declaration, the California Department of Transportation will prepare to control traffic, close vulnerable highways and deploy snow-removal equipment. Local authorities will receive support for flood and landslide response, while the California National Guard may be deployed for rescue, engineering and other emergency operations if needed.
Coastal areas of California have already experienced damage from recent storms and large waves, including coastal erosion, flooding and damage to structures in parts of Southern California. Officials fear conditions could worsen with another strong El Niño.
Newsom said his administration wanted to prepare before storms strike rather than wait until they cause damage. Preparations include stockpiling flood-response equipment, protecting vulnerable infrastructure and strengthening emergency services.
Sources: AFP, Reuters