City of Lancaster Encourages Residents to Prepare for 2026–27 Storm Season

Lancaster, CA. October 22, 2026 - Storm preparation is an annual priority for the City of Lancaster, with teams working ahead of each winter season to inspect infrastructure, address known problem areas, and prepare for potential impacts from rain, wind, and flooding. This year, with a potentially strong 2026-27 El Niño developing, the City is building on those preparations and taking additional steps to prepare for the possibility of more intense storms.

On September 21, 2026, the State of California proclaimed a State of Emergency for the developing El Niño event to strengthen statewide preparedness ahead of potential severe weather, flooding, erosion, mud and debris flows, atmospheric rivers, and other storm-related impacts. In Lancaster, that heightened readiness builds on the seasonal storm preparation already underway across the City.

"Preparing for storms is something our City teams do every year, but we know this season could bring stronger weather," said Lancaster Mayor R. Rex Parris. "We're doing more to prepare, and we're asking residents to do the same. Take some time now to check your property, put together an emergency kit, and sign up for Alert Lancaster. Don't wait until the rain starts to get ready."

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reports that El Niño is strengthening, with a greater than 90% chance of becoming a very strong event during fall and winter 2026-27. While a strong El Niño can increase the likelihood of significant weather impacts, it does not guarantee a specific amount of rainfall or flooding in Lancaster. City teams are continuing seasonal preparations while increasing readiness in areas that could be particularly vulnerable during heavier storms. The City is also encouraging residents to begin preparing now by checking their properties, putting together emergency supplies, and making sure they have a reliable way to receive emergency alerts before severe weather arrives.

Lancaster Public Works Prepares Ahead of the Storm

The City of Lancaster Public Works Department is actively preparing the community's stormwater infrastructure for the upcoming wet season. Crews are inspecting and clearing storm drains, drainage channels, basins, and other drainage infrastructure to help keep water moving through the City's stormwater system.

Residents can help support these efforts by keeping gutters and drainage areas clear. Leaves, trash, yard waste, and other debris should never be swept or blown into the street, gutter, or storm drain, where they can restrict water flow during storms.

Prepare Your Property Before Rain Arrives

Residents are encouraged to take simple steps now to reduce potential storm impacts, including:

• Clear leaves and debris from gutters and areas around your property where water may collect.
• Secure outdoor furniture and other loose items before severe weather.
• Know whether your home or property may be vulnerable to flooding and consider appropriate protective measures.
• Avoid driving or walking through flooded roadways. Water depth and road conditions can be difficult to determine. Turn Around, Don't Drown.
• Keep an emergency kit available with essential supplies, medications, flashlights, batteries, and other necessities.
• Stay informed about changing weather and road conditions.

Residents can obtain unfilled sandbags at local fire stations. Sand for filling sandbags is available at designated City stockpile locations. Residents should bring their own tools to collect and fill sandbags.

Know Your Flood Risk

Residents are also encouraged to understand their property's flood risk and determine whether flood insurance is appropriate for their household. Flooding can occur outside of FEMA-designated high-risk flood areas. According to the National Flood Insurance Program, nearly one-third of NFIP flood insurance claims from 2014 through 2024 came from areas outside current high-risk flood zones.

Standard homeowners insurance typically does not cover flood damage. Residents can learn more about their flood risk, flood maps, and insurance options through the National Flood Insurance Program at FloodSmart.gov.

Stay Informed

During severe weather, conditions can change quickly. Residents are encouraged to monitor official City communications and National Weather Service forecasts for the latest information.

Residents should also download the free Inform Lancaster app, available through the Apple App Store and Google Play. The app provides access to City news and updates and allows residents to report issues directly to the appropriate City department.

Preparedness does not mean a major storm will occur in Lancaster. It means residents and City crews are ready if one does.

For additional storm preparedness information, visit cityoflancasterca.gov/readylancaster and follow the City of Lancaster and Lancaster Public Works on official social media channels.

About The City of Lancaster

Lancaster is a diverse community of nearly 170,000, leading the future through science, technology, art, culture, and collaboration. Home to astronauts, rocket scientists, families, and innovative businesses large and small, we are leading the USA with innovation. Combined with spectacular landscapes and clean air, Lancaster has the confidence, expertise, spirit, and imagination to transform tomorrow. We are: Creating a better tomorrow. Visit us at www.cityoflancasterca.gov.