El Niño: What does it mean for Roseville?
Sep 30, 2026
With El Niño in the news, the City of Roseville has been receiving questions from residents about what this means for the upcoming storm season.
NOAA is forecasting a very strong El Niño for the 2026–27 winter. El Niño influences large-scale weather patterns, but it is not a local weather forecast.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) Sacramento office, a very strong El Niño does not guarantee that Roseville will have an unusually wet winter.
Since 1950, there have been 9 ‘strong’ or ‘very strong’ El Niño years in Northern California. Of those, 3 were wet years, 3 were normal years, and 3 were dry years (source: NWS).
The timing, intensity, and location of individual storms are better predicted by shorter-range weather forecasts. The City will continue to monitor conditions and provide relevant information and updates to the community as needed throughout the storm season.
With 74 miles of creeks running through Roseville, every rainy season brings the potential for flooding.
To help protect Roseville from damaging floods, the City, along with FEMA, has invested approximately $39 million in infrastructure since 1995. Because of Roseville’s dedication to public safety and thoughtful investments, Roseville’s flood risk has significantly reduced.
Roseville is one of only two communities in the nation with a Class I FEMA flood preparedness rating. The City has held this top rating since 2006.
While the City of Roseville has made investments in a robust storm water drainage system, it’s not unusual for localized street flooding to occur during heavy storms. Modern streets are designed to convey water, directing runoff away from homes and businesses.
Know your flood risk. Check Roseville's flood-zone and hazard information for your property. Or, contact Public Works by calling (916) 746-1300.
Around your home
Sign up for Placer Alert emergency notifications.
Monitor official City of Roseville communication channels and the National Weather Service during storms for important information.
roseville.ca.gov/floodplain
NOAA is forecasting a very strong El Niño for the 2026–27 winter. El Niño influences large-scale weather patterns, but it is not a local weather forecast.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS) Sacramento office, a very strong El Niño does not guarantee that Roseville will have an unusually wet winter.
Since 1950, there have been 9 ‘strong’ or ‘very strong’ El Niño years in Northern California. Of those, 3 were wet years, 3 were normal years, and 3 were dry years (source: NWS).
The timing, intensity, and location of individual storms are better predicted by shorter-range weather forecasts. The City will continue to monitor conditions and provide relevant information and updates to the community as needed throughout the storm season.
Know your risk
With 74 miles of creeks running through Roseville, every rainy season brings the potential for flooding.
To help protect Roseville from damaging floods, the City, along with FEMA, has invested approximately $39 million in infrastructure since 1995. Because of Roseville’s dedication to public safety and thoughtful investments, Roseville’s flood risk has significantly reduced.
Roseville is one of only two communities in the nation with a Class I FEMA flood preparedness rating. The City has held this top rating since 2006.
While the City of Roseville has made investments in a robust storm water drainage system, it’s not unusual for localized street flooding to occur during heavy storms. Modern streets are designed to convey water, directing runoff away from homes and businesses.
Know your flood risk. Check Roseville's flood-zone and hazard information for your property. Or, contact Public Works by calling (916) 746-1300.
Prepare before the next major storm
Around your home
- Protect your property and reduce flooding hazards by keeping drainage areas free of debris.
- Keep flashlights, batteries and emergency supplies available.
- If your property is at risk, consider flood insurance. Roseville property owners receive up to a 45% discount. Ask your insurance agent if you are covered for flood damage.
Stay informed
Sign up for Placer Alert emergency notifications.
Monitor official City of Roseville communication channels and the National Weather Service during storms for important information.
roseville.ca.gov/floodplain