Gov. Gavin Newsom on Monday declared a state of emergency for California as a historic El Niño season takes shape.
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The move puts statewide agencies on alert ahead of potentially powerful winter storms and other significant weather impacts during the upcoming rainy season.
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The declaration mostly helps streamline efforts to help prepare the state for what is expected to be a historic weather event. It directs crews to prepare roads and critical infrastructure, stage emergency supplies and help communities brace for flooding, landslides and coastal impacts.
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Forecasters expect El Niño to strengthen in the months ahead.
