A local emergency has been declared due to storm damage that occurred last week.

Imperial County Fire Chief and Office of Emergency Services Coordinator David Lantzer made the proclamation Wednesday. According to the declaration, the storm caused significant damage to transmission lines and poles, resulting in widespread power outages across Imperial County. Flooding also damaged roads and homes. The proclamation covers all f Imperial County, including cities and special districts. According to Chief Lantzer, " This proclamation allows us to fully activate our emergency organization, coordinate resources, and pursue available state and federal assistance to support recovery". The proclamation was issued under the authority of the California Emergency Services Act and Imperial County ordinances. The Board of Supervisors was not in session and could not be called into session immediately. The proclamation expires in 10 days unless confirmed and ratified by the County Board of Supervisors.. The board meets next on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.