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NewsTimes of San DiegoAugust 25, 2026San Diego

San Diego officials prepare for potential 'super' El Niño as scientists monitor storm risks

San Diego city agencies have formed an El Niño working group to coordinate emergency responses and public communication in anticipation of a potentially historic weather event. While scientists confirm a strong El Niño is developing in the Pacific, they note that its specific impact on local rainfall and flooding remains uncertain.

climate changeemergency preparednessfloodingweatherinfrastructure
Read the full story at Times of San Diego

Why It Matters

Residents in flood-prone areas like Chollas Valley, Sorrento Valley, Mission Valley, and the Tijuana River Valley face potential risks from heavy rainfall, coastal flooding, and erosion, with over 6,900 structures currently located in FEMA-designated flood-hazard zones.

Key Facts

  • The Office of Emergency Services has established an El Niño working group to coordinate storm response and public communication.
  • Over 6,900 structures and 15,000 acres in San Diego are located within FEMA-designated flood-hazard areas.
  • Pacific sea-surface temperatures are currently 3.6 degrees Fahrenheit above average, with a greater than 90% chance of a strong El Niño this fall and winter.
  • Sea levels along the California coast can temporarily rise by up to 13 inches during strong El Niño events.
  • Scripps researchers are mapping the California coastline before and after the event to monitor infrastructure damage and erosion.
  • San Diego has recorded 42 record-high ocean surface temperatures at the Scripps Pier this year.
  • City officials advise residents to create emergency plans, prepare kits, and sign up for emergency alerts.
  • Flood-prone areas identified by the city include Chollas Valley, Sorrento Valley, Mission Valley, and the Tijuana River Valley.
  • Strong El Niño events in 1982-83 and 1997-98 were among the wettest years on record in California.

Who's Mentioned

personArt Miller“Scripps researcher.”personShang-Ping Xie“Scripps professor of climate science.”other42“Record-high ocean surface temperatures at Scripps Pier.”organizationNational Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration“Monitoring sea-surface temperatures.”organizationSan Diego Office of Emergency Services“Coordinating city-wide El Niño preparations.”personDan Cayan“Scripps climate researcher.”other6,900“Structures in FEMA-designated flood-hazard areas.”organizationScripps Institution of Oceanography“Conducting research on El Niño patterns and coastal impacts.”other15,000“Acres in FEMA-designated flood-hazard areas.”personAdam Young“Scripps coastal geologist.”other13“Inches sea levels can rise during strong El Niño events.”