Following an Aug. 11 motion by Supervisor Lindsey P. Horvath, Los Angeles County emergency officials outlined how the county is preparing for the 2026-27 storm season and what residents can do now, as El Niño could bring heavier rain and increase the risk of flooding, landslides and debris flows.
“After fires, floods and landslides, we know exactly what is at stake when heavy rain hits
Los Angeles,” said Horvath. “LA County crews have been doing the work year-round; now we’re making sure every part of [the] county government is ready to move together when conditions change. The time to prepare is now, and Los Angeles County is here to make sure our communities have the information, resources and support they need to be ready.”
LA County is preparing its flood control and emergency response systems now. Crews are inspecting and maintaining dams, debris basins, channels, storm drains and pump stations; monitoring burn areas, hillsides and other areas at risk of flooding and debris flows; and preparing for evacuations, emergency shelter and other storm response.
County teams are also preparing to assist people experiencing homelessness, older adults and others who may need additional help during severe weather.
Here’s what residents can do now:
■ Sign up for emergency alerts: Go to alert.lacounty.gov to receive emergency notifications, including evacuation warnings and orders.
■ Know the risks where you live: If you are near a hillside, canyon, recent burn area or area that can flood, learn your flood and mudflow risk before a storm.
■ Make an evacuation plan: Know where you will go and how you will get there if you need to leave quickly.
■ Have supplies ready: Keep enough food, water, medications and other essentials for up to 10 days.
■ Prepare your home: Clear gutters, downspouts and storm drains, fix roof leaks and get sandbags before heavy rain is in the forecast.
■ Consider flood insurance: Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Flood insurance is separate and can take at least 30 days to go into effect.
■ Need help with mud or debris flow risk? Call LA County Public Works at 1-800-933-0930 to speak with an engineer.
■ Know someone experiencing homelessness who needs help? Visit homeless.lacounty.gov/get-help/.
When storms hit, never drive or walk through flooded roads. Stay away from downed power lines and flooded areas. Watch for rising water, mud and debris flows; move to higher ground if you see them and follow evacuation warnings and orders. Check on neighbors, older adults, youth and others who may need help.
On Monday, Sept. 28 at 6 p.m., Horvath will host a virtual town hall open to all LA County residents where residents can ask county experts about El Niño, storm risks, county preparations and how to be ready.
Learn more at lindseyhorvath.lacounty.gov.
For preparedness information, emergency updates, and resources in one place, visit ready.lacounty.gov.