In this lesson plan, the city of Malibu (CA) is at the mercy of the weather phenomenon El Nino. The press secretary for the Mayor of Malibu recognizes an opportunity to turn this potential natural disaster into a re-election campaign. A task force will be assembled to protect the lives and property of the community. Students role play members of the task force, including City Manager, President of the Chamber of Commerce, leader of the Citizens Patrol team, and the Mayor's press secretary. Students research El Nino, forecast possible disaster scenarios, and provide recommendations for effectively responding to these scenarios. Students are provided with background information, detailed instructions, online resources, and reflection questions. The teacher's notes describe the unit's purpose, explain the application of history/social science standards, and suggest teaching strategies. (BT)