Santa Ana, Calif. – The County of Orange on October 9, 2026, launched a new El Niño emergency-response website. This digital platform aims to provide timely news, direct links to County and city resources, and crucial information designed to help residents and businesses prepare for impending storm-related weather impacts. The primary website, located at www.ocgov.com/el-nino, is intended to serve as a central point for the community to access the latest developments regarding the County’s preparations and responses to El Niño conditions.
In addition to the main County site, OC Public Works (OCPW) has developed its own dedicated webpage. This resource focuses on practical measures for residents and businesses to prepare their properties for potential flooding and offers guidance on ensuring safe travel during wet weather conditions. The OCPW webpage, accessible at pwom.oc.gov/el-nino, also details the specific actions OC Public Works is undertaking to ready critical community infrastructure for the anticipated impacts of El Niño storms.
El Niño is a recognized natural climate pattern with the potential to bring Southern California multiple rounds of severe weather. Projections indicate a likelihood of heavy rainfall, strong winds, mountain snow, and hazards such as flooding, landslides, and debris flows. Coastal areas may experience large waves and coastal flooding, particularly when storm events align with very high tides. These expected impacts pose risks for road closures, power outages, damage to infrastructure, and necessitate potential evacuations, all of which will be communicated through the newly established County website.
The launch of these resources follows earlier proactive measures taken by regional and state authorities. On September 17, the County of Orange issued a local emergency proclamation in response to ongoing coastal impacts linked to Hurricane Marie. Subsequently, Governor Newsom declared an El Niño-specific state of emergency on September 21. This state-level declaration facilitated the mobilization of state resources in advance of potential winter storms and other associated impacts across California.
Given the forecast for a significantly wetter-than-average winter season, residents and businesses throughout Orange County are strongly advised to initiate preparedness efforts immediately. Key recommendations include developing a comprehensive emergency plan, assembling a portable emergency kit, and registering for emergency alerts through AlertOC. To remain informed of the most current information, the County encourages monitoring updates via its official social media channels, including @OCGovCA on X (formerly Twitter), @OCGov on Facebook, and @OCGov on Instagram. Additionally, residents should follow local media outlets and track the #ocelnino hashtag on social media platforms for real-time information. The centralized digital platforms aim to keep Orange County residents and businesses well-informed and prepared for the upcoming El Niño season.
