California Shores Up Flood Defenses as 75% Odds Point to Strongest El Niño Since 1950
Updated
Updated · Los Angeles Times · Sep 22
California Shores Up Flood Defenses as 75% Odds Point to Strongest El Niño Since 1950
3 articles · Updated · Los Angeles Times · Sep 22
Summary
Southern California officials are reinforcing burn-scar hillsides and expanding flood-control capacity ahead of a virtually certain “super” El Niño expected to bring a punishingly wet winter.
NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center puts the chance of a stronger-than-any-since-1950 event at 75%, with a 98% probability El Niño will be “very strong” in the three months ending in December.
Los Angeles says city staff are coordinating with the National Weather Service to reduce debris-flow, flooding and high-wind risks, while L.A. County is clearing heavy sediment from reservoirs including San Gabriel, Eaton Wash and Devil’s Gate.
Residents are being urged to prepare before storms arrive by signing up for alerts, checking roofs and drains, keeping sandbags ready, reviewing insurance and packing go-bags.
Experts warn the tropical moisture pattern could repeatedly drench the region, making early home, vehicle and evacuation planning critical because contractors and emergency resources often get stretched once storms begin.