What impacts has California already felt from this year’s El Niño?
The governor’s office noted that the state has already experienced coastal flooding attributable to El Niño. The state can expect to see Kelvin waves, slow moving pulses of water that can stretch thousands of miles and raise sea levels along the coastline—increasing the risk for coastal flooding and erosion, and offshore Pacific hurricanes. Climate scientists also warn that the Pacific can expect to see a temporary 6-inch to 2-ft. rise in sea levels this winter.
A number of southern California towns, including Malibu, Laguna Beach, and Long Beach, have already seen significant coastal erosion due to El Niño and Pacific hurricanes this year.
How can Californians prepare for El Niño?
The state has urged residents to take action to prepare for El Niño by signing up for emergency alerts and learning their flood risk, and having an evacuation plan and emergency kit at the ready.
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