Farmers Insurance Warns of Potential El Niño Impact on Winter Weather

National Preparedness Month and the potential for a historically strong El Niño have prompted Farmers Insurance to remind homeowners and businesses to prepare for severe weather. According to Bobby Massey, Head of Catastrophe Claims at Farmers, "Preparation should happen before severe weather enters the forecast. Reviewing coverage and addressing risks around the home can make a meaningful difference after a loss."

El Niño, a natural climate pattern characterized by unusually warm ocean temperatures in the tropical Pacific, can significantly impact weather patterns across the United States. This year, NOAA forecasts that the El Niño event will be unusually powerful, with a greater than 90% chance of becoming very strong during the fall and winter of 2026-2027. There is also a 69% chance that it could exceed every El Niño measured since 1950. While a strong El Niño can bring heavy rain, flooding, powerful storms, landslides, and dangerous winter weather, it does not guarantee severe weather in every community.

Jeff Hinesly, Flood Director at Farmers Insurance, emphasized the importance of flood insurance. "A flood can be devastating for a family or business. Discovering afterward that the damage is not covered can make an already difficult situation even harder. Flood insurance cannot prevent the emotional toll of a disaster, but it can provide important financial support as homeowners and business owners begin to recover. That is why people should assess their flood risk and explore coverage options before severe weather is on the way."

The impacts of El Niño may extend beyond the winter season. In the spring, areas that receive increased rain or snow may see more grass, brush, and other vegetation, which can fuel wildfires during hot, dry weather. Regional conditions vary, so a wetter winter does not guarantee greater wildfire activity but may shape risks well into the warmer months.

Bobby Massey, Head of Catastrophe Claims at Farmers Insurance, stated, "This year has already brought significant wildfire activity across the country, underscoring how quickly conditions can threaten homes and communities. With a potentially historic El Niño ahead, the risks may continue to evolve well beyond fall and winter. Preparing now, and staying alert as local conditions change, can help households and communities reduce risk in the months ahead."

Farmers Insurance has outlined eight key preparedness actions that can help households and businesses prepare financially and reduce potential property damage before severe weather threatens:

1. Confirm roof information to ensure it is up to date and in good condition. 2. Review dwelling coverage to ensure it reflects current reconstruction costs. 3. Understand flood risk and explore flood insurance options. 4. Know the deductibles to plan for costs after a loss. 5. Review car insurance to ensure it covers weather-related events. 6. Clear gutters, drains, and downspouts to ensure proper water drainage. 7. Create a home inventory to document losses. 8. Review additional living expense coverage to cover temporary housing and other increased living expenses.

Farmers Insurance supports nonprofit organizations working across the disaster lifecycle, helping communities prepare, respond, and recover. These organizations include Strongward, which advances resilience and long-term recovery; Operation BBQ Relief, which serves meals to disaster-affected communities and first responders; Project:Camp, which provides safe spaces for children after disasters; and the American Red Cross, which delivers shelter, food, and emergency assistance nationwide.

Farmers Insurance encourages households and businesses to review their coverage, address property risks, and make preparedness plans before severe weather enters the forecast. With El Niño expected to strengthen through the end of the year, the company urges individuals to take proactive steps to protect their homes and businesses.