The anticipated wetter-than-average winter could lead to flooding in Mendocino County, particularly in flood-prone areas like the Russian River and its tributaries. While not all above-average rainfall results in severe flooding, the risk of at least one extremely wet month is high. Coastal areas face additional challenges, as El Niño is expected to raise sea levels by 1-2 feet (30-60 cm), doubling the impact of climate change-related sea level rise. This could lead to flooding in low-lying areas near estuaries and river mouths. The warming ocean temperatures may also disrupt marine ecosystems, affecting fisheries and local biodiversity.