Los Angeles County officials are encouraging residents to start preparations now for what could be an unusually intense El Niño season this winter.
Mark Pestrella, director of Los Angeles County Public Works, stated that forecasters are describing the event as a Super El Niño. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Climate Prediction Center has indicated a greater than 90 percent likelihood of very strong weather impacts during the rainy season.
The forecast led county leaders to review preparedness measures at a Board of Supervisors meeting well before the typical start of the rainy season. Supervisor Lindsey Horvath noted that predictions point to extraordinary effects from this El Niño.
Pestrella confirmed that the county's flood control systems, which include dams, spreading grounds and 144 debris basins, are in place to channel stormwater. County departments responsible for public works and emergency services have also begun planning for major storms.
Residents are advised to evaluate their own properties for vulnerabilities, such as hillside locations or nearby ponds, and to clear gutters. Officials recommend that those in higher-risk zones consider flood insurance.
Areas identified for possible greater flooding include the Antelope Valley, Malibu and low-lying parts of Long Beach and Los Angeles, where inundation could reach twice normal levels during intense rainfall. Horvath plans to host a virtual town hall later this month to share further guidance.
This report is based on coverage by ABC7 Los Angeles: https://abc7.com/post/potentially-historic-el-nino-triggers-preparations-possible-flooding-la-county/19777136/