Malibu has declared a local emergency as it prepares for severe weather that could accompany the forecast 2026–27 El Niño event.
The declaration gives the city more room to act quickly if flooding, landslides, debris flows or coastal erosion occur. It also helps Malibu coordinate with other levels of government and obtain resources for preparation and response, the city said.
Recent coastal damage has added urgency. Powerful surf last month worsened beach erosion and left a large sinkhole at a beachfront home; 31 properties were red-tagged. King tides also flooded Thornhill Broome Beach in June.
NOAA puts the chance of a very strong El Niño this winter above 90%, with a 75% chance it reaches historic strength. Gov. Gavin Newsom issued a statewide emergency declaration last month to accelerate preparations.
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