Even before the first winter storm of the year, Sonoma County is declaring a local emergency in anticipation of above-average flooding expected from this season’s El Niño weather pattern. Sonoma County leaders are preparing for above-average rainfall from December through March. The Nationa l Weather Service is predicting a 70% chance that it will be the strongest El Niño in more than 70 years. The local emergency proclamation will help the county get an early start on staffing and training. There’s also a plan for community engagement, including a focus on people living in mobile homes near the lower Russian River. County crews will also continue preventive drainage clearing and road repairs. Sonoma County isn’t alone in preparing early. Two weeks ago, Gov. Gavin Newsom declared a statewide state of emergency to coordinate preparedness. The governor requested recommendations from the state’s environmental protection and natural resources agencies by Oct. 16. ...read more read less