What's Happening
El Niño is active in the Pacific and is expected to strengthen into early 2027. NOAA's Climate Prediction Center says it could be one of the strongest on record, with a better than 50% chance of above-normal rain across much of coastal California this winter. Impacts are expected to build slowly, then ramp up in the core winter months and especially late winter. Forecasts can't tell us exactly where or when storms hit, so prepare now.
What to Expect
- Flooding near creeks, underpasses, parking lots, and low-lying areas
- Mudslides and debris flows on hillsides and burn scars
- Strong wind, downed trees and limbs, power outages
- Road closures and slow, hazardous commutes (including mountain routes)
- Campus impacts: late openings, schedule changes, closed walkways, parking lots, or buildings
Get Ready Now
- Sign up for alerts: Rave alert notification system and AlertSCC (Santa Clara County)
- Check your car: tires, wipers, brakes, lights, full tank
- Keep a go-kit in your car or bag: phone charger/power bank, flashlight, water, snacks, medications, rain gear, warm layers
- Have a plan: a family contact and a backup route to and from campus
- Renters/homeowners: check flood coverage. It usually takes 30 days to take effect
- Home: clear gutters, fix roof leaks, trim trees, store documents in waterproof containers
On Campus: What We're Doing and What You Can Do
- Monitor forecasts and coordinate with the District and local agencies.
- Send alerts for campus closures and hazards through the RAVE Alert System.
- Know your building's evacuation and shelter in place plan.
- Review your emergency procedures and update class and office contact lists.
- Be ready to move classes online.
- Check email and alerts before leaving home.
- Allow extra travel time.
- Report campus flooding, leaks, downed trees, or broken lights to Campus Police.
During and After a Storm
- Turn around, don't drown. Never drive or walk through floodwater; 6 inches can knock you down and 12 inches can float a car.
- If water rises, move to higher ground. Don't wait for an order.
- Stay away from downed power lines and anything touching them. Call 911.
- Stay clear of trees, hillsides, and creek banks in heavy rain or wind.
- Use flashlights, not candles, in an outage. Never run a generator indoors.
- Don't return to a closed area until officials say it's clear.
Resources
Download the WVM Safe App
