Southern California prepares for powerful El Niño season

Southern California authorities are preparing for an anticipated El Niño season, which meteorologists suggest could be one of the strongest in a century. The weather pattern is expected to bring warmer ocean temperatures, larger swells, and increased storm activity.

In San Diego, officials are addressing infrastructure vulnerabilities. Stormwater department director Todd Snyder reported that only 17% of the city's storm channels are designed to handle a 100-year storm, with some capable of handling only two- to five-year events. Mayor Todd Gloria has announced a citywide plan to aggressively prepare for these conditions, emphasizing that maintenance performed before rainfall is critical to preventing flooding.

Along the coast, lifeguards are bracing for increased activity. In Newport Beach, officials noted a significant rise in rescues, including a recent incident where a disabled rental boat required intervention. Lifeguards warn that rising water temperatures may draw more swimmers into the ocean, increasing the risk of rip current accidents.