Official City of Long Beach Statement Regarding Proclamation of Local Emergency Related to Developing 2026-27 El Niño Event and Winter Storm Season

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PRESS RELEASE

Today, Sept. 21, 2026, Long Beach City Manager Tom Modica proclaimed a Local Emergency as a result of the impacts from Hurricane Marie and the imminent and proximate threat to safety of persons and property within the city due to the developing 2026-27 El Niño event and winter storm season.

On Sept. 21, 2026, Governor Gavin Newsom proclaimed a State of Emergency related to the anticipated impacts of the 2026-27 El Niño season and directed State agencies to take early actions to protect vulnerable communities, critical infrastructure and emergency response capabilities. The State's action recognizes the potential for significant storm-related impacts associated with a strong El Niño.

While the City has already initiated preparedness activities for the winter season, the City Manager has determined that emergency preparedness measures are warranted due to the anticipated conditions, the recent storm impacts experienced by Long Beach from Hurricane Marie, and the potential for impacts that may exceed the City's normal day-to-day operational capabilities. A Proclamation of Local Emergency provides the City with the ability to take extraordinary preparedness measures and exercise the emergency powers authorized under State law and the Long Beach Municipal Code to prepare for and respond to the threatened impacts of the 2026-2027 El Niño and winter storm season.

Tomorrow night, Sept. 22, the City Council will hold a special meeting to consider and vote on the recommendation to adopt a resolution to ratify the City Manager's Proclamation of Local Emergency. More information and details are available here: Long Beach City Council Special Meeting Sept. 22, 2026.

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