County agencies prep for potentially strongest El Niño on record

Ventura County is taking proactive steps to coordinate across agencies and strengthen readiness ahead of what the National Weather Service forecasts could be the strongest El Niño event on record, creating the potential for a stormier, wetter than usual winter.

The forecast. The NWS is forecasting that significant El Niño conditions will continue to intensify through the end of 2026, with the possibility of these conditions creating the strongest event on record, according to the county's Sept. 30 news release. The presence of strong El Niño conditions raises the likelihood of Ventura County experiencing a stormier, wetter than usual winter.

Preparations underway. County Public Works is inspecting and maintaining critical infrastructure, cleaning debris basins, storm drains and channels, and monitoring roads and other areas that may be vulnerable to flooding or storm damage. Heavy rainfall can increase the risk of flooding, landslides, and debris flows, particularly in areas previously affected by wildfires. Strong El Niño conditions can also increase flooding and high surf risk in coastal areas, particularly if storms coincide with peak high tide events.

First responder briefing. First responder agencies from the county provided an update to the Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, Oct. 6, about activities already underway to prepare.

Emergency coordination. The Sheriff's Office of Emergency Services is coordinating countywide emergency preparedness efforts and working to ensure residents in higher-risk areas understand potential hazards and know how to receive timely emergency information. The Ventura County Fire Department is preparing personnel and resources for potential storm response.

Burn area risk. Residents living in or below recent burn areas should be especially prepared. Intense rainfall can produce dangerous debris flows with little warning, and evacuation warnings or orders may be issued based on forecast rainfall rates before significant rainfall begins.

Emergency Services Director. 'While we cannot predict exactly what this winter will bring, we know that early preparation can make a significant difference when severe weather occurs,' said Patrick Maynard, Director of Emergency Services. 'Our focus is on preparing early, coordinating closely with our cities and partner agencies, and making sure residents understand the hazards that may affect their communities. We encourage everyone to use this time to prepare their homes, know their evacuation routes, and sign up for VC Alert. When storms arrive, conditions can change quickly, and being prepared ahead of time is one of the best things you can do to keep yourself and your family safe.'

Resources. Information on flood maps, sandbag locations, how to build an emergency kit, and how to sign up for emergency evacuation notifications from VC Alert are available at ready.venturacounty.gov.