By Sir Milo Loftin, County of San Diego Communications Office
Sep. 25, 2026 | 10:18 AM
Reading Time: < 1 minute
County Emergency Services has launched a new El Niño 2026 Informational Hub on Alert San Diego, giving residents a single, reliable place to prepare for what experts say could be one of the strongest El Niño seasons on record.
With forecasts pointing to heavier rainfall, more frequent storms, coastal erosion and increased flood concerns this fall and winter, County officials say residents should start preparing now — well before the first major weather system arrives.
The new hub brings together preparedness guidance, hazard information and County tools in one easy-to-navigate site. It helps residents understand what El Niño could mean for San Diego County, how the County is getting ready and the steps households can take today to reduce risk.
Scientists already see early signs of El Niño building in the Pacific, and ocean temperatures continue to rise above historic norms. The County Weather Center and the ALERT flood‑warning network are tracking real-time rainfall and stream levels to guide field operations and help keep communities safe.
The hub also links residents to practical tools, including emergency alert registration, sandbag locations, real-time weather information from the National Weather Service, the Tell Us Now reporting app and mapping tools that show neighborhood-level hazards.
County departments are preparing for El Niño by clearing storm drains, reinforcing infrastructure and increasing emergency response staffing.
As the region braces for a potentially intense season, County officials urge residents to use the new information hub to stay informed, plan ahead and reduce their risk before storms arrive.
Related: Alert San DiegoEl Ninoemergency servicesfloodingpreparedness
Sir Milo Loftin is a communications specialist with the County of San Diego Communications Office
