It is no secret that California is facing one of the strongest El Nino’s ever recorded. The “Godzilla” El Nino is predicted to be stronger than the one that struck California in 1997-1998. El Nino’s occur when unusually warm waters stretch across the surface of the Pacific Ocean. El Nino can be devastating due to resulting droughts, severe flooding, mudslides, and damage to crops. Although unavoidable, there are several precautions that residents can take to prepare for the upcoming El Nino storms.

1. The most important precaution to take is to fix any leaks that may be present before the rainstorms hit. Water proofing the house is essential to minimize damage costs.

2. Make sure that drains will not get clogged and clean out gutters. Gutters and drains clogged with debris can create hazardous water backups, so make sure to thoroughly clear any possible obstructions.

3. Create an emergency kit. During severe storms, many dangerous events can occur, and having an emergency kit is crucial. Items such as water, batteries, non-perishable foods, first aid kit, and extra clothes, to name a few, should be included.

4. Look into flood insurance coverage. Damage costs resulting from floods are extremely expensive. Even if you are not in an area that is in risk of floods, it is important to get covered, as some 20% of flood insurance claims come from areas that are not in high risk.

5. Get prepared as soon as possible! Preparing for this type of weather does not happen quickly. It is always better to prepare before than during the storm.

Heavy rains are expected to hit the Los Angeles areas during the next month. It is crucial to be prepared when they do. With the proper preparation, El Nino can pass by as just another heavy rain season. And with California’s current drought condition, a little bit of heavy rain may not be so bad.


<Brennan Lee, Harvard-Westlake High school 11th Gra>