By Camilla Torres and Arturo Alba.
This fall and winter, El Niño could bring heavier rainfall, coastal flooding, and significant changes in weather across the West Coast.
It is predicted that this El Niño will be the strongest yet, bringing hurricanes and rising ocean temperatures of over two degrees Celsius, which will lead to more rainfall, heat, and humidity throughout the year.
The World Meteorological Organization confirmed that there is a “near 100% likelihood that it will persist through February 2027.”
El Niño is a weather phenomenon that occurs when the ocean’s surface warms up, typically in the Pacific Ocean, which is then pushed by low-level winds toward the west. It can generate storms and hurricanes by providing the adequate conditions for them to be created.
One of the many hurricanes being generated from the phenomenon is Hurricane Polo. It is expected to make landfall in Baja California and Southern California, and the communities are bracing for rain, flooding, and high speed winds.
Communities are preparing for beachfront erosion, which is already occurring to homes and boardwalks in cities such as Malibu and Orange County, which scientists are attributing to the hurricane. Some communities, such as Long Beach, are declaring local emergencies as they brace for the upcoming storm.
Residents can be prepared by checking the FEMA Hazard Flood Map, and signing up for alerts from organizations such as NOAA Weather. They can also create family emergency plans which can include making a multi-day supply kit and making an evacuation route to safer locations.
To protect property, start by clearing gutters, making sure there aren’t leaks and setting up sandbags if the flooding is especially bad. It is recommended to get flood insurance if the damage is grave, or just to be safe. These measures can ensure that property does not suffer the worst damage.
Although El Niño can and will be extreme, it is always good to know what will happen, and how to be prepared for anything that may come.