The ongoing El Niño event poses significant risks to California, including widespread flooding, mudslides, and severe coastal erosion. Coastal communities, particularly those in Southern California, are already experiencing damage, with some beaches and seawalls eroded and oceanfront homes destroyed. Areas near recent wildfire burn scars are especially vulnerable to landslides and flash floods due to the lack of vegetation. The combination of rising sea levels from Kelvin waves and the potential for intense storms could lead to further infrastructure damage, road closures, and community isolation. The financial toll is projected to reach up to $3 billion in damages statewide.