California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency on September 21, as the state braces for record El Niño storms this upcoming winter. The order allows California to mobilize resources early and prepare communities for severe rain, flooding, landslides, coastal flooding, and possible power outages.
This year’s El Niño is already breaking records and continues to strengthen. Federal forecasters say there is a greater than 90% chance it will become a very strong event this fall and winter, with a 75% chance of reaching historic strength.
The emergency declaration directs state agencies to prepare roads and critical infrastructure, position flood-fighting supplies, and ready the California National Guard for possible flood response and search-and-rescue operations. Newsom said California is acting early so communities and first responders are prepared before the worst weather arrives.
El Niño occurs when parts of the tropical Pacific become unusually warm, disrupting weather patterns around the world. So, what exactly is El Niño, and why can its effects reach so far? Click through to find out.