Governor Newsom Orders Storm Protections for Pacific Coast Highway Ahead of El Niño Storms

Sacramento, California — California Governor Gavin Newsom has ordered storm protections for Pacific Coast Highway and coastal communities ahead of powerful El Niño storms threatening the state's coastline.

What is happening:

The governor's executive order directs state action to protect Highway 1, including the stretch through Malibu and sections along the Mendocino coast, as strong El Niño-driven storms approach. The order focuses on keeping the coastal highway open and shielding nearby communities from storm damage.

Local impacts:

Pacific Coast Highway is one of California's most storm-exposed routes, and heavy rain and high surf from El Niño storms can close sections of the road and threaten homes and businesses along the coast. The order puts state resources in place before the storms arrive rather than waiting for damage.

What to do:

- Drivers along Highway 1 should watch for road work, closures, and changing conditions as storms approach.

- Coastal residents should stay alert for official updates from state and local emergency officials.

- Never drive through flooded roadways or around barricades on closed roads.

Source: City of Malibu / The Mendocino Voice, October 29, 2026. Reported by TNW News.