El Niño Is Strengthening: Is Your Building Ready?

Southern California property teams should start preparing now for what could be an unusually active winter storm season.

NOAA currently has an El Niño Advisory in effect and says El Niño is strengthening, with a greater than 90% chance of a very strong event during this fall and winter.

While El Niño does not guarantee that Southern California will experience extreme rainfall, a stronger event increases the potential for typical El Niño impacts.

For commercial buildings, preparation shouldn't wait until rain is in the forecast.

What Property Teams Can Do Now

• Inspect roofs, drains and gutters. Clear debris from roof drains, gutters, downspouts and other drainage paths.
• Check for existing leaks or areas where water tends to collect. Check the areas most vulnerable to water. Review basements, parking garages, loading docks, entrances and other low-lying areas.
• Make sure sump pumps, drainage systems and backup equipment are working properly.
• Prepare for flooding and water intrusion. Know where water has entered the property during previous storms and have sandbags, barriers, pumps and other supplies ready before they are needed.
• LA County recommends clearing drainage paths and using sandbags where appropriate to direct runoff away from structures.
• Pay attention to slopes and recent burn areas. Heavy rain can create mud and debris-flow risks, particularly near hillsides and areas affected by wildfire. Properties in or near these areas should understand their exposure and monitor local warnings closely.
• Review emergency procedures with your team. Make sure engineering, security, property management and vendors know who is responsible for storm preparation and response.
• Update emergency contacts and establish procedures for flooding, power outages, leaks, road closures and other disruptions.
• Check your insurance coverage. Don't assume your existing property insurance covers flooding. Flood insurance is generally a separate policy, and building owners should understand their coverage before storm season begins.
• Know where you'll get information, sign up for local emergency alerts and monitor trusted weather and public-safety sources. LA County provides storm preparedness information, mud and debris-flow forecasts and emergency alert resources for property owners and the public.

Prepare Before the Rain Starts

For property teams, the goal isn't to predict exactly what this El Niño will bring. It's to identify vulnerabilities before the first major storm arrives.

A few preventative steps now, from clearing drains to testing pumps and reviewing emergency plans, can help protect buildings, tenants and operations when severe weather hits.

BOMA/GLA will continue sharing resources and updates to help Greater Los Angeles property teams prepare for this upcoming storm season.

We also encourage members to get involved with our Security and Emergency Preparedness Committee to connect with industry experts and stay informed on emerging safety issues and best practices.

You can also check out our Building Services Finder to find trusted industry partners who can help your building prepare.