Carlsbad is reviewing emergency plans for three dams, staging rescue teams and distributing sandbags as San Diego County declared a local emergency Wednesday, Sept. 30, ahead of what the county's proclamation calls a potentially historic El Niño season.

The county proclamation gives crews expanded authority to respond to flooding, landslides, debris flows and damage to critical infrastructure, North County Daily Star reported. It follows Gov. Gavin Newsom's statewide emergency proclamation issued Sept. 21, which mobilized state resources ahead of anticipated severe weather.

"Early action saves lives and property," County Chief Administrative Officer Ebony Shelton said in a statement. "This emergency declaration strengthens our ability to respond quickly, communicate clearly and make sure residents have the resources they need to stay safe throughout El Niño conditions."

Carlsbad said in a Sept. 8 preparedness update that the city is reviewing emergency action plans for the Calavera, Maerkle and Mahr dams. Swift water rescue teams, Urban Search and Rescue teams, Public Works crews and the Emergency Operations Center are being readied.

The city is also coordinating sandbag distribution and clearing storm drains and drainage channels. In January 2026, Carlsbad expedited repairs to storm drain infrastructure in the coastal bluffs near Carlsbad Boulevard and Solamar Drive that had been damaged by previous storms.

At the county level, departments have been clearing storm drains, reinforcing infrastructure and increasing emergency response staffing. The County Weather Center and the ALERT flood-warning network are tracking real-time rainfall and stream levels.

County Emergency Services launched an El Niño 2026 Informational Hub on Alert San Diego on Sept. 26, North County Daily Star reported. The hub is available in multiple languages and includes emergency alerts, sandbag locations, current weather conditions and preparedness resources.

Residents can use the county's Know Your Hazards tool to enter their address and identify potential risks. A county preparedness advisory issued Sept. 29 notes that areas with higher flood risk have been identified, and outreach teams are focusing preparedness information in those communities.

Carlsbad's emergency services page warns that 6 inches of fast-moving water can knock an adult off their feet.

Twelve inches can carry away many vehicles.

Residents can report issues on county roads, culverts and infrastructure through the Tell Us Now App or by calling the county's 24/7 hotline at 877-684-8000.