City declares local emergency in anticipation of El Niño
STATE OF EMERGENCY
At its Sept. 28 meeting, the Seal Beach City Council ratified the local emergency proclaimed for the developing 2026-2027 El Niño season.
The action supports preparation for severe storms, flooding, coastal flooding, high surf, erosion and other weatherrelated impacts in the months ahead.
The proclamation is a proactive preparedness measure. It does not mean that an immediate disaster is occurring in Seal Beach or that residents need to take emergency action at this time. Instead, declaring a local emergency allows the city to prepare and coordinate resources before potentially severe weather develops and provides additional flexibility to respond quickly if conditions change.
The action follows Gov. Gavin Newsom’s Sept. 21, 2026 proclamation of a statewide State of Emergency related to the developing El Niño event. The County of Orange also proclaimed a local emergency in coastal areas on Sept. 17.
Seal Beach experienced significant loss and movement of beach sand during recent high-surf conditions associated with Hurricane Marie. City staff continues to document those impacts. While those recent conditions demonstrate the city’s coastal vulnerability, the local emergency proclamation is primarily focused on preparing for the broader risks associated with the upcoming El Niño season.
The proclamation will help the city:
• Coordinate and stage personnel, equipment, supplies, and other resources before severe weather occurs.
• Strengthen coordination with Orange County, state agencies, neighboring jurisdictions and mutualaid partners.
• Protect city facilities, infrastructure, beaches and other vulnerable areas.
• Use emergency purchasing and contracting procedures when authorized and necessary.
• Document emergency- related costs and damages for potential reimbursement or assistance.
• Respond more quickly to flooding, coastal erosion, infrastructure damage, road impacts, power disruptions or other emergencies that may develop.
—City of Seal Beach
