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Emergency Preparedness

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Emergency preparedness and resources

The Big One Is Brewing: Getting Ready for the 2026–27 El Niño

Watch “Personal Preparedness: I Use a Wheelchair” on YouTube

A very strong El Niño is expected this fall and winter, and it could be one of the strongest on record. That may bring heavy rain, flooding, and unusual weather to many areas. Now is a good time to get ready: put together an emergency kit, and make a plan. A little preparation now can make a big difference later.

Get ready before the storms arrive. Here’s how to prepare

If you or someone in your household has a disability:

  • Build a support network of two or three neighbors, friends, or family who can check on you during storms or outages, and share your needs and a spare key with them.
  • Plan for power loss if you rely on electric equipment like oxygen concentrators, power wheelchairs, CPAP machines, or refrigerated medication. Keep backup batteries or a portable power station charged, and ask your utility about a medical baseline or priority-restoration program.
  • Stock extra medications and supplies (at least a week’s worth), plus copies of prescriptions, a list of your conditions and doctors, and extra hearing aid or device batteries.
  • Make your evacuation plan accessible: know which routes and shelters are wheelchair-accessible, arrange transportation ahead of time if you don’t drive, and register with your local emergency management office’s special needs or access and functional needs registry if one exists.
  • Choose alerts that work for you, such as text or vibrating alerts for Deaf and hard-of-hearing people, or voice alerts for those who are blind or low vision.
  • Include service animals in your kit with food, water, medication, and vet records.
  • Keep mobility aids near your bed and label equipment with your name and instructions for use in case you’re separated from it.

Watch “Preparación personal: Yo uso una silla de ruedas” on YouTube

The Department of Developmental Services plays an active role in responding and takes a proactive approach to ensuring the health and safety of the ’ service system by facilitating emergency response activities and improving emergency response readiness.

Read the DDS emergency preparedness bulletin | Fall Safety | September 2026

Ready.gov/disability has free checklists and planning worksheets tailored to different needs. Know what disasters and hazards could affect your area, how to get emergency alerts, and where you would go if you and your family need to evacuate.

Visit People with Disabilities | Ready.gov

Since 2019, Listos California, part of the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), has helped millions of Californians get lifesaving emergency information they might not otherwise have. Listos California plays a vital role by giving vulnerable communities the tools they need to stay safe and recover after a disaster.

Visit listoscalifornia.org