El Nino Preparation

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Prepare Your Home for El Niño

The 2026–27 El Niño may bring intense storms, heavy rainfall, strong winds, flooding, erosion, and landslides. Residents are encouraged to prepare their homes before winter storms arrive.

Prepare Your Property

  • Inspect roofs, retaining walls, foundations and slopes for damage.
  • Clean gutters, downspouts and drainage systems.
  • Check plumbing, pools, spas and irrigation systems for leaks.
  • Make sure water drains away from buildings, foundations and slopes.
  • Remove dead branches, loose furniture and other objects that could be carried by strong winds.
  • Protect bare soil with mulch, native plants or erosion-control material.
  • Watch for standing water, seepage, saturated soil or new cracks.
  • Consult a qualified professional if your property has drainage problems, significant slopes or signs of soil movement.
  • Purchase sandbags from local businesses, White Cap or Ganahl Lumber. 

Stay Informed

Monitor National Weather Service advisories, watches and warnings. Avoid flooded roads, unstable slopes, coastal bluffs and areas affected by falling debris. Follow evacuation orders, road closures and instructions from public safety officials.  Sign up for AlertOC for emergency notifications at alertoc.gov and follow the City on Instagram, Facebook, or Nextdoor.

Property Improvements

Drainage, grading, structural, landscaping and slope-stabilization work may require City review or permits, particularly on coastal or hillside properties. Contact the City before beginning work:

  • Planning Division: (949) 248-3563
  • Public Works and Engineering Services: (949) 248-3562

For additional preparation guidance, visit the California Coastal Commission’s El Niño webpage and the National Weather Service.

 

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