How to Prepare for El Niño in California
NOAA declared El Niño conditions earlier this year, and forecasters say this one could be strong. Across California, El Niño winters often bring more storms and heavy rain. That can mean river and coastal flooding in Northern and Central California, heavy snow in the Sierra, and flash flooding and mudflows in Southern California, especially near hillsides and recent burn areas. A little preparation now can protect your home, your car and your budget, wherever you live in the state.
1. Check whether you have flood coverage
Standard homeowners and renters policies do not cover flood damage. That includes water that rises from the street, overflowing washes and mudflow. Flood coverage is a separate policy, and many flood policies have a 30-day waiting period before coverage starts. If you wait until rain is in the forecast, it may be too late. Learn more about flood insurance.
2. Know the difference between flood and water damage
Homeowners insurance may help with sudden water damage from a burst pipe or a storm that damages your roof and lets rain in. Rising water from outside, sewer backup and slow leaks are usually treated differently. Ask us whether your policy includes water backup coverage, which is often an optional add-on.
3. Get your home ready before the first storm
Clean gutters and downspouts and make sure water drains away from your foundation.
Check your roof for missing or damaged shingles and seal gaps around windows and doors.
Clear storm drains and debris near your driveway and yard.
Test your sump pump if you have one, and consider a battery backup.
Pick up sandbags early. Many local fire stations and cities offer them free before big storms.
Trim dead branches that could fall on your home, car or power lines.
4. Protect your car
Flood and falling-tree damage to your vehicle is usually covered under comprehensive coverage, not liability. If you only carry liability, a flooded car may not be covered at all. Review your auto policy and avoid driving through flooded roads. Just a few inches of moving water can stall a car or sweep it away.
5. Document your belongings
Take a quick video of every room, including closets and the garage, and save receipts for big purchases. Store copies of your policies and important documents in the cloud or a waterproof container. If your home is ever damaged, this makes the process much easier.
6. Make a family plan
Sign up for local emergency alerts, keep a go-bag with flashlights, batteries, chargers, medications and water, and know your evacuation route, especially if you live near a hillside or burn scar.
Get a free coverage review before the storms
We can check your home, renters, auto and flood coverage in one quick call and show you where you may have gaps. Request a free review or call (818) 459-3400.
Coverage depends on your policy terms, conditions and exclusions. CA License #6014107.