Cathedral City Fire Chief urges El Niño preparations now

CATHEDRAL CITY, Calif. (KESQ) - Fire officials said the lessons learned from Tropical Storm Hilary are already shaping their response plans for a potentially strong El Niño season. It's not just our local leaders -- the state is urging all Californians to prepare now.

On Monday, Governor Gavin Newsom declared a statewide state of emergency for the potentially historic El Niño season. The declaration enables agencies to stage flood-fighting equipment, accelerate permits, and mobilize the National Guard.

Cathedral City Fire says it's important for residents to set up a plan before we even start seeing the impact.

"Preparation is going to be... if they wait until the storm comes, it's going to be too late," said Cathedral City Fire Dept. Chief Michael Contreras. "Make sure that you have an evacuation plan right now. If the rain is coming and you're in a flooded area, make sure that you know where you're going."

Contreras added, "One of the things that I can't say enough is if you see standing water, don't drive through it. 

Cathedral City was hit hard by Tropical Storm Hilary in 2023

Contreras said the department has spent the past year expanding its storm response capabilities.

More than two dozen firefighters are now certified in swift-water rescue thanks to a FEMA grant, and crews have been training on flood response, access points, and emergency operations.

The Palm Springs Fire Dept. is also part of stepping up swift-water rescue training as well.

Firefighters there also recently completed hands-on flood and river rescue exercises in the Coachella Canal, using real-world conditions to practice life-saving techniques and emergency response.

PSFD reminds residents to never drive or walk through flooded roadways or moving water.

For residents, you can sign up for Alert RivCo notifications to receive emergency warnings and evacuation information during severe weather events.