Severe Weather

Overview

Across California, school districts and local educational agencies (LEAs) are encouraged to prepare for potential winter storm impacts from El Niño, including heavy rainfall, localized flooding, mud and debris flows, power and utility outages, road closures, transportation disruptions and damage to school facilities.

What is El Niño?

El Niño is a naturally occurring climate pattern characterized by unusually warm ocean temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific. These changes can influence weather patterns around the world and increase the likelihood of certain weather conditions.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), El Niño conditions are currently present and strengthening, with a greater than 90% chance of a very strong El Niño during fall and winter 2026–27. While El Niño does not guarantee specific weather conditions in any one location, stronger events can increase the likelihood of typical El Niño-related weather patterns.

With the potential for significant winter weather impacts, including heavy rainfall, flooding, mud and debris flows, power outages and transportation disruptions, early preparation can help reduce risks and maintain essential operations.