*Local state of emergency declared due to ongoing storms
Recent heavy rains and the forecast for more on the way prompted San Mateo County to declare a local state of emergency Tuesday, while announcing the activation of its Emergency Operations Center.
The County activated its Emergency Operations Center to serve as the 24-hour nerve center that coordinates resources and communication with local, regional and state agencies and response partners.
“These storms have already displaced some residents and caused damage. It is important that we have a coordinated response to prioritize public safety, especially for those who reside in areas more prone to flooding,” said County Executive Mike Callagy.
Callagy, who also serves as the County's Emergency Services Director, signed the disaster proclamation and the Board of Supervisors ratified it this morning.
The atmospheric river over the New Year's Eve weekend recorded record levels of rainfall, including about 5.8 inches in the 24-hour period beginning early on Dec. 31.
Impacts so far include:
- Major roads and highways were closed and several underpasses were flooded, including Holly Street in San Carlos and Harbor Boulevard in Belmont.
- Sewer treatment plans at risk of failure.
- Flooding on Pescadero Creek Road forced fire trucks to be relocated to the local high school campus.
- Evacuations are required at a mobile home community in Belmont and the Moonridge farmworker housing community; about 100 residents are temporarily housed in hotels.
- The closure of several county parks and trails.
In response, this morning the Board of Supervisors also ratified a local State of Emergency Declaration, following on the heels of the state declaration.
The local declaration makes the county eligible for reimbursement for costs incurred in its emergency response to the current storms.
The National Weather Service predicts the county will receive another 3.4 inches of rain starting midday Wednesday. Storms could continue through the upcoming weekend.
So far, the county has responded to the emergency by securing local hotel rooms for residents displaced by flooding; securing space for additional shelters on the coast if needed; and preparing an area for mass evacuation should it become necessary.
Additionally, San Mateo County has ordered 24,000 sandbags for distribution throughout the area, while Public Works Department crews are working around the clock to clear roads and debris.
Officials urged residents to review expanded health and safety guidelines for residents with flooded homes, as well as check with their city's Department of Public Works for sandbag availability and locations.
In turn, you can check with your city's Emergency Operations Center or County Main Service Agencies if you need assistance in a shelter, and if you must evacuate, plan, get out early and save everyone.
Remember to sign up for warnings and emergency alerts at www.smcalert.info and check road closures and flooding in real time at https://aware.zonehaven.com/search.
It is important to note that you can report flooding to your local city. In the unincorporated area, call the main DPW line at (650) 363-4100.
Flooding on private property should be managed by the property owners.
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