El Niño: Authorities warn public to prepare for heavy flooding across California

FILE - In this Jan. 27, 1983 file photo, the landmark Crystal Pier in the San Diego community of Pacific Beach collapses under the force of surging waves during an El Nino storm. One hundred feet of the 56-year-old structure was lost. Evidence is... (Copyright by WSLS - All rights reserved)

KRON – SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) — Weather officials are predicting massive flooding throughout California over the next several months, and issued this warning to home owners: better get prepared because you're running out of time.

In Friday morning's conference call with media to address the impacts of the upcoming storm season, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said that dangerous flash flooding will be on the rise, according to data from weather models.

Recommended Videos



"People should have food and water for at least 72-hours in their vehicles and home," NOAA spokesperson said.

Much of the focus during the call with the NOAA and Federal Emergency Management Agency officials was centered on preparedness and the importance of insurance coverage. According to weather officials, 50-70% of people who should have flood insurance do not.

"Flood insurance policies usually have a 30-day waiting period to take effect…the time to get one is now," officials said.

Flash floods can potentially damage homes as well as vehicles as water depths can reach up to two feet, strong enough to sweep a car off the roadway. Six inches of rushing water can knock a person off their feet.

Officials are suggesting if affordability is an issue, flood insurance is worth getting for one year to get through this winter, then cancel.

The warning comes as a monster Category 5 storm takes aim at Mexico's southwestern coastline Friday. Residents, resorts, and ports are scrambling to find supplies and board up buildings before Hurricane Patricia makes a "potentially catastrophic landfall" later in the day.