Public Safety
California activates emergency response for fire weather and Rachel recovery
The state activated its emergency coordination center for dangerous fire weather and opened disaster-assistance pathways for four Southern California counties recovering from Tropical Storm Rachel.
Gov. Gavin Newsom activated California's State Operations Center as Santa Ana winds and low humidity raised wildfire danger, according to an official state announcement. Cal OES and CAL FIRE were directed to preposition firefighters, engines, aircraft and specialized equipment so resources could move quickly as conditions changed.
In a separate action announced at the same time, Newsom proclaimed a state of emergency in Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego counties to support recovery from Tropical Storm Rachel.
Fire-weather action: State Operations Center activated
Recovery counties: Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego
State resources: Firefighters, engines, aircraft and specialized equipment prepositioned
Official announcement: October 15, 2026
What the proclamation does
The state said the proclamation makes assistance available under the California Disaster Assistance Act. It also directs Caltrans to request federal help through the Federal Highway Administration for eligible repairs to storm-damaged highways and related infrastructure.
Rachel brought strong winds, heavy rain, hazardous surf, coastal erosion, flood concerns and road disruptions beginning October 11, the governor's office said. Local agencies remain the authoritative source for evacuation orders, road closures and immediate hazards.
Official source: Governor of California — October 15, 2026 →