San Diego crews prepare hiking trails and parks for potential El Niño impacts

City and county crews in San Diego are actively preparing popular hiking trails and inland open spaces in anticipation of El Niño, which could bring a historically wet winter, the Times of San Diego reported.

Efforts include fortifying berms along beaches and clearing accumulated leaf litter, debris, and soil from drains around park facilities to reduce flooding risks, according to a city spokesperson cited by the Times of San Diego.

Different areas face unique challenges due to San Diego’s varied topography. Mission Trails may experience trail erosion and hillside movements, while higher elevations like Cowles Mountain are at risk of rockfalls and rockslides.

Crews are working to address these potential hazards proactively to protect trails and park infrastructure ahead of expected heavy rains.

These preparations reflect the city's broader strategy to mitigate El Niño's impact on both coastal and inland recreational areas.