Preparing for a Wet Winter

With California’s unique climate, our rivers and streams  rarely have average flow due to unpredictable yearly swings between drought and wet conditions. Climate change is increasing how often and how intensely we see extreme weather, including winter storms with heavy rain or snow.  As of mid-2026, developing El Niño conditions in the equatorial Pacific are raising the chances of a wetter-than-normal winter in California. When the next wet winter arrives, you can be ready to divert excess surface water before it floods land or flows out to sea.

2 Ways to Quickly Divert Water

The State Water Board's Division of Water Rights Permitting Program offers two ways to quickly divert surface water for groundwater recharge that you may want to learn about: temporary permits for recharge and flood diversions for recharge.

How can I prepare for a wet winter?

Wet winters can create valuable opportunities for recharge that might not occur in typical years. To act quickly when conditions are right, prospective diverters should:

1. Learn the requirements for temporary permits and/or flood recharge diversion.
2. Consult with the Permitting Program before the rainy season starts.
3. Review your project elements and prepare an application early if one is required.
4. Confirm that all essential project components – such as conveyance infrastructure – are ready and available before the diversion season begins.