How California Municipalities Can Prepare For El Niño

California Municipalities Bracing for Heavy El Niño Rainy Season

Weather experts predict a strong El Niño that will persist throughout the winter and into the spring. Locally, El Niño means strong winds and heavy rain, so California municipalities need to prepare accordingly.

Implications of El Niño

El Niño, which is a phenomenon that occurs when ocean waters are warmer than usual, brings powerful storms to the western part of the country. These storms lead to flooding, mudslides and other events that damage property, knock out the city’s LED lighting systems, contaminate water, and more.

Preparing for the Storm

To prepare for El Niño, municipalities can:

• Clean storm drains and runoff ditches.
• Inspect areas prone to flooding and mudslides and perform needed maintenance.
• Ensure proper function of pump houses.
• Develop emergency notification protocols for residents.
• Inspect municipal LED lighting systems and fix any problems.
• Inspect and repair backup generators connected to essential municipal systems.

Municipalities should also educate residents about El Niño and its potential effects so that they can prepare their homes, businesses, and develop their own emergency action plans.

Improve Safety and Efficiency with Attractive LED Lighting Options

Great Basin Lighting has a track record of successfully helping cities and towns throughout California and Nevada make their streets safer, reduce energy use and beautify public spaces. Please call (925) 240-1566 (CA) or (775) 333-0900 (NV) or email our Bay Area LED experts to understand your options for improving your street and community lighting.