A very strong El Niño is on the way. In its September 10, 2026 update, NOAA's Climate Prediction Center gave it a greater than 90% chance of being a very strong event this fall and winter [1]. For San Diego homeowners, that can mean far more rain than most of us are used to, and the time to prepare is before the first storm.
Kyle Whissel, co-founder of Whissel Beer Group and a born-and-raised San Diegan, puts it plainly: "if you own a home in San Diego, now is the time to start completing these projects."
What is El Niño, and what does it mean for San Diego?
El Niño is a warming of Pacific Ocean waters that shifts winter storm patterns. Strong El Niño winters often push more storms into Southern California, though results vary year to year. Treat preparation as inexpensive insurance: most of it costs far less than repairing water damage.
What should San Diego homeowners do before El Niño rain arrives?
Start with the outside of the home, where water gets in first:
- Clean your rain gutters and downspouts so water drains away from the house.
- Have your roof inspected, especially if you noticed a leak last winter.
- Flush exterior and yard drains so they are clear before heavy rain.
- Look for standing water near your foundation and fix grading or drainage that sends water toward the house.
- Check your irrigation system and turn it down or off once the rain starts.
City and county residents can also pick up free sand and sandbags at sites across San Diego County [2].
Who can help me get my home ready?
After more than 9,000 homes sold in San Diego County, Whissel Beer Group has built a trusted list of local vendors: gutter cleaners, roofers, drainage and irrigation pros, and more. Tell us what your home needs and one of our team agents will connect you with the right vendor.
Not sure where to start, or wondering how this winter could affect a home you're planning to buy or sell? We're happy to talk it through.
Get Your Home Ready for El Niño
- Need a vendor? Tell us what your home needs and a team agent will follow up.
- Have a question? Call 619-815-5589. We're happy to answer questions and share more details.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I prepare my San Diego home for El Niño?
Now, before the first major storm. NOAA expects El Niño to keep strengthening through the end of 2026 [1], and gutter, roof and drain work is harder to schedule once storms start.
Does a strong El Niño always mean a wet winter in San Diego?
Not always. Strong El Niño years have brought very different rainfall totals to Southern California, so the safest approach is to prepare for heavy rain and be glad if you don't need it.
Can Whissel Beer Group recommend a roofer or gutter cleaner?
Yes. Our team agents can connect you with trusted local vendors for gutters, roofs, drains and irrigation. Call 619-815-5589 or send us a note with what your home needs.
Sources
- NOAA Climate Prediction Center, ENSO Diagnostic Discussion, issued September 10, 2026.
- County of San Diego, Temporary Sand and Sandbag Locations, checked October 7, 2026.
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