California – California is preparing for dangerous flooding before the next major storms arrive, putting new rescue vehicles, boats and specialized equipment into the hands of firefighters who may soon face fast-moving water and flooded communities.
With a potentially powerful El Niño storm season approaching, Governor Gavin Newsom has announced a statewide upgrade that will strengthen 13 local swiftwater rescue teams and improve California’s ability to respond when severe weather threatens lives.
The new equipment will be distributed through the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), which oversees the state’s Swiftwater Rescue Program. These specialized teams are staffed by trained local firefighters who respond to emergencies in their own communities and can be sent elsewhere when additional help is needed.
Each of the 13 Type 1 teams will receive heavy-duty four-wheel-drive vehicles, rescue trailers, two motorized inflatable boats, updated protective equipment and specialized tools for dangerous water operations.
The upgrades are designed to help emergency crews reach flooded neighborhoods, respond to rapidly rising rivers and conduct rescues while reducing risks to firefighters.
Newsom emphasized the importance of preparing before conditions deteriorate.
“While Donald Trump moves to cut disaster preparedness, we’re putting new rescue vehicles, boats, and lifesaving equipment into the hands of highly trained local first responders now, so when floodwaters rise, California is ready to move quickly to protect communities and save lives,” Newsom said.
The announcement follows two other emergency preparedness improvements: the opening of California’s modernized State Operations Center and the introduction of new satellite-based disaster intelligence capabilities.
Through an agreement with satellite-imaging company ICEYE, California will gain access to near-real-time information about flooding, wildfires and other emergencies, even when clouds, smoke or darkness limit visibility.
Emergency managers can use that information to identify flooded areas, estimate water depths and determine where rescue resources are most urgently needed.
The investments come as California prepares for potentially severe weather associated with El Niño, which can increase the likelihood of intense storms, flooding, landslides and coastal hazards.
California officials are also highlighting concerns about proposed federal funding reductions. President Trump’s fiscal year 2027 budget includes a proposed $1.3 billion reduction to FEMA, affecting preparedness grants and emergency warning programs.
Meanwhile, California continues supporting disaster operations beyond its borders. Since June, the state has deployed 3,482 personnel and 271 pieces of equipment to assist emergency responses across 13 states and two countries.
Residents are encouraged to prepare before storms arrive by checking flood risks, clearing gutters, signing up for emergency alerts and developing evacuation plans.
Officials also stress one critical safety rule: never attempt to drive through flooded roads, where water depth and damaged pavement can be difficult to judge.