California declares state of emergency amid historic El Niño threat

California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a statewide state of emergency in response to a strengthening El Niño event. Federal forecasters at NOAA report a greater than 90% chance of a very strong El Niño during the 2026-27 fall and winter, with a 75% chance of it reaching historic strength.

State officials are mobilizing resources to prepare for heavy rain, flash flooding, landslides, debris flows, and coastal erosion. The declaration allows for the staging of flood-fighting supplies, the positioning of the California National Guard for search-and-rescue, and the preparation of vulnerable infrastructure by Caltrans.

Early signs of the phenomenon are already impacting the coast, with powerful surf causing damage to beachfront homes and seawalls in Southern California. Experts warn that the event could lead to significant economic impacts, with some models estimating statewide losses from flooding and mudslides between $2 billion and $3 billion. Residents are being urged to review insurance policies, as standard homeowner coverage often excludes flood and landslide damage.