Report Prepared by: Craig J. Cornwell, City Attorney
Title
SUBJECT: Adopt Resolution No. 2026-64 Proclaiming the Threatened Existence of a Local Emergency Due to the Developing 2026-2027 El Niño Event
REPORT IN BRIEF
Considers adopting a Resolution proclaiming the threatened existence of a local emergency within the City of Merced due to the developing 2026-2027 El Niño event and the resulting threat of severe storms, flooding, and related impacts to persons, property, and public infrastructure.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council - Adopting Resolution 2026-64, A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Merced, California, Proclaiming the Threatened Existence of a Local Emergency Due to the Developing 2026-2027 El Niño Event.
Body
ALTERNATIVES
1. Approve as recommended by staff; or
2. Approve, subject to modifications by the City Council; or
3. Deny;
AUTHORITY
Merced Municipal Code section 8.20.070(A). California Emergency Services Act, including Government Code section 8630.
CITY COUNCIL PRIORITIES
Public Safety.
DISCUSSION
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Climate Prediction Center reported on September 10, 2026, that El Niño is strengthening, with a greater than 90 percent chance of a very strong event during the Northern Hemisphere fall and winter of 2026-2027, and a 75 percent chance that the October through December 2026 season will reach historic strength exceeding prior El Niño events dating back to 1950.
On September 21, 2026, the Governor of the State of California proclaimed a State of Emergency throughout California due to the developing 2026-2027 El Niño event and directed state agencies to take advance measures to prepare for anticipated severe weather and flooding impacts. The Governor's proclamation also encourages coordination with local governments in undertaking preparedness and flood-risk reduction activities.
The City of Merced has experienced significant flooding during prior severe storm events, includin...
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