November marks the official start of El Nino, bringing the possibility of cold weather, rain, snow, and flooding to Southern California over the next 90 days.
The California Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) would like everyone to be prepared for the changing weather patterns, starting with Santa Ana winds this week and Southern California’s first chance of rain.
The National Weather Service in San Diego is expecting Santa Ana Winds to continue through Thursday, with northeast wind gusts reaching 30 to 40 mph in some places, and over 60 mph in wind prone areas like the Inland Empire and Orange County. Weaker winds and low humidity are predicted to last through Sunday morning.
Looking ahead, meteorologists are expecting Southern California’s first winter storm next week. Chances of getting some precipitation November 14 through 17 are as high as 80 percent.
Cal OES is coordinating with local first responders and county emergency management leaders across the state to take early proactive steps to prepare for El Nino and other winter weather.
To follow California’s preparation for Winter Storms and learn how to keep yourself and your community safe visit news.caloes.ca.gov