California Counties and Philippine Region Coordinate El Niño Storm Defenses

Officials in California are strengthening preparations for expected El Niño storms, including opening San Benito County’s first permanent Emergency Operations Center and coordinating county agencies in Kern County to demonstrate rescue and public-works capabilities. San Benito’s center is designed to bring county, city, state and federal services together, though the county is still seeking a full-time emergency-services deputy director. In the Philippines’ CALABARZON region, disaster officials and 34 agencies are developing a coordinated action plan to protect communities and livelihoods—especially farmers and fisherfolk—from possible drought and water shortages. Across these efforts, officials emphasize advance coordination and protecting residents, essential services and livelihoods.