Public Safety
Los Angeles steps up El Niño storm preparations
City crews are assessing high-risk areas, strengthening stormwater systems and preparing emergency teams as forecasters warn of an elevated winter storm risk.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and emergency officials outlined preparations Monday for flooding, strong winds and other possible effects of a strengthening El Niño. CBS Los Angeles reported that city crews have been evaluating high-risk areas, reinforcing stormwater infrastructure and readying emergency response teams before winter storms arrive.
NOAA's Climate Prediction Center said in its September 10 update that El Niño has a greater than 90% chance of becoming very strong during fall and winter 2026–27. The agency estimated a 75% chance that the event will reach historic strength during October through December, while emphasizing that specific local impacts are not guaranteed.
How residents can prepare
Officials urged residents to assemble emergency go kits, create family communication plans and sign up for NotifyLA alerts. The Los Angeles Fire Department provides ready-to-fill sandbags at every neighborhood fire station and, when seasonal conditions warrant, free sand at selected locations. LAFD advises residents to call ahead because supplies can run out during periods of high demand.
Original report: CBS Los Angeles →
Official forecast: NOAA Climate Prediction Center →
Sandbag locations and guidance: Los Angeles Fire Department →