Preparing for El Niño in California: Steps for Safety and Protection
California is anticipating a ‘super’ El Niño event, which is expected to bring a wet and challenging winter. Residents and business owners should start preparing now. Authorities across Southern California are working diligently to strengthen hillsides and install flood control systems. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center, there is a 75% chance that this El Niño will be the strongest since 1950, with a 98% chance of being ‘very strong’ by December. This weather pattern involves warmer ocean waters in the central and eastern tropical Pacific, likely channeling tropical moisture toward Southern California and causing significant rainfall.
Preparation Efforts by Los Angeles
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass’s office has stated that the city is actively planning for the super El Niño. Regular meetings with the National Weather Service are occurring to manage burn scar areas and mitigate the effects of debris flows, flooding, and high winds. Los Angeles County has taken measures to enhance flood prevention by removing sediment from reservoirs like San Gabriel, Eaton Wash, and Devil’s Gate.
Preparation Tips for Home Safety
- Sign up for Emergency Alerts: Stay informed. L.A. County Supervisor Lindsey Horvath suggests signing up for local emergency alerts. Know the risks in your area, create evacuation plans, and be ready if near hillsides, canyons, or flood-prone areas.
- Check for Leaks: Terry Heller, of Preferred Roofing, advises inspections for older roofs or previously leaky homes. Routine maintenance can prevent emergency leaks during storms.
- Ensure Effective Drainage: Landscape architect Esther Margulies recommends inspecting yard water flow. Clean drains and ensure proper discharge to curb drains. Consider sump pumps for consistent dampness or pooling.
- Have Sandbags Ready: Use sandbags as barriers if water threatens to enter doorways. Free sandbag distribution sites are available, but call ahead and have proof of residence.
Tree and Plant Management
- Tree Care: Arborist Alison Lancaster advises hiring a licensed arborist for tree evaluations. Avoid practices like tree thinning and topping, as they harm tree health.
- New Plants for Erosion Control: For sloped yards, ground covers like buckwheat and coyote brush can help manage runoff. However, they won’t offer immediate control but will benefit in the long term.
General Home and Insurance Guidelines
- Verify Insurance Coverage: Attorney Amy Bach suggests assessing the need for flood insurance, especially with climate changes increasing storm severity.
- Review Home Insurance: Be aware of changes in coverage, especially regarding water damage. Filing claims for small losses might increase premiums.
- Inventory Valuables: Use your phone to document possessions and email yourself videos for off-site records.
Vehicle and Personal Safety
- Prepare Your Vehicle: Check tire tread, windshield wipers, brakes, and lights. Maintain a full tank or charged battery before storms.
- Avoid Driving Through Floodwaters: Remember, a foot of water can move a car, and two feet can affect trucks and SUVs. Adhere to the mantra ‘Turn around, don’t drown.’
Assembling Go Bags
- Essentials for Go Bags: Have a portable supply for three days, including food, water, medications, and emergency cash. Incorporate a local map and photocopies of vital documents.
- Pet Supplies: Prepare a pet bag with essentials like a leash, food, water, and recent photos for identification.
Planning and preparation are crucial for safety during an El Niño event. Stay alert and take actionable steps to protect homes, families, and properties from potential weather threats.