AGENDA ITEM NO. 9
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AGENDA STAFF REPORT
City of West Covina | Office of the City Manager
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| DATE: | October 20, 2026 |
TO: |
Mayor and City Council |
FROM: |
Milan Mrakich, City Manager |
SUBJECT: |
2026-27 EL NINO AND WINTER STORM PREPAREDNESS |
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the City Council receive and file this informational report and direct staff to continue routine storm-season preparation and public education for the 2026–27 rainy season, using existing City resources and coordination with applicable County, State, and emergency-response agencies.
BACKGROUND:
West Covina is preparing for a possible wet winter due to El Niño for the 2026-27 winter storm season. A wet winter is not guaranteed. However, preparing before significant rainfall can help reduce risks to people, property, and public infrastructure. The beginning of the rainy season provides an important opportunity to review emergency plans and take reasonable steps to protect people and property. West Covina is urging residents and businesses to prepare now for the heightened potential of severe storms.
Los Angeles County advises residents to prepare for possible severe storms by monitoring official alerts, developing an evacuation plan, assembling supplies for up to 10 days, securing property, and understanding local flood and mudflow risks. West Covina and Los Angeles County maintain flood-control infrastructure and conduct storm-season preparations in the City.
Los Angeles County advises residents to prepare for possible severe storms by monitoring official alerts, developing an evacuation plan, assembling supplies for up to 10 days, securing property, and understanding local flood and mudflow risks. West Covina and Los Angeles County maintain flood-control infrastructure and conduct storm-season preparations in the City.
DISCUSSION:
Annual storm season preparedness activities by City Departments and Staff include:
- Inspect and maintain City-owned storm drains, catch basins, drainage paths, and other applicable stormwater infrastructure; remove debris as appropriate.
- Review procedures for receiving, prioritizing, and responding to reports of blocked drains, localized flooding, fallen trees, and other storm-related hazards.
- Check staff communication and coordination procedures for severe-weather events, including after-hours response where applicable.
- Share storm-preparedness information with residents through the City's website, social media platforms, newsletters, community outreach materials, and other existing communication channels.
- Encourage residents to clear private gutters and drainage paths, obtain sandbags before storms, prepare emergency supplies, and monitor official weather and emergency alerts.
- Remind the public to avoid flooded roadways and moving water, stay clear of downed power lines, and follow evacuation instructions from emergency officials.
Prepared by:
Renee M. G. Chavez, Management Analyst I
Additional Approval:
Roxanne E. Lerma, Assistant City Manager
Fiscal Impact
FISCAL IMPACT:
No additional fiscal impact is anticipated from receiving this report. Routine preparedness, maintenance, and public outreach activities are conducted using existing departmental resources and existing departmental budgets. Any extraordinary response or repair costs would be evaluated through the City’s normal processes.
Attachments
CITY COUNCIL GOALS & OBJECTIVES:
Protect Public Safety
Enhance City Image and Effectiveness
Enhance City Image and Effectiveness