Baltimore, MD, September 23, 2026 —

California Governor Gavin Newsom has officially declared a state of emergency, initiating preparations for a potentially historic El Niño event expected to impact the state this winter. The declaration is intended to mobilize state resources and streamline efforts to address the anticipated consequences of the weather phenomenon.

The governor’s office stated that the proactive measure is designed to ensure the state is ready to respond to a range of severe weather conditions. These potential impacts include severe storms, heavy rainfall, landslides, and widespread flooding across California. The declaration of a state of emergency typically grants the governor expanded authority to deploy resources, coordinate state agencies, and expedite necessary actions in anticipation of or response to natural disasters.

El Niño is a climate pattern characterized by the warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. While specific forecasts for the intensity and exact timing of this winter’s El Niño remain subject to ongoing meteorological analysis, its potential for significant disruption has prompted the governor’s preemptive action. The state aims to leverage this emergency declaration to enhance preparedness measures, including infrastructure assessments, public safety advisories, and coordination with local emergency services.

The specific timeline for the El Niño’s onset and its potential duration will be closely monitored by state officials and meteorological agencies. The focus remains on preparedness to mitigate risks and ensure public safety as the winter season progresses.


Story summarized from the original created by Simmone Shah on time.com, see more information here.

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