The Governor Gavin Newsom The U.S. Department of Health has activated the State Operations Center to coordinate a statewide response ahead of the next round of incoming storms that are expected to bring significant impacts across the state, and has also urged residents to prepare.
Beginning Tuesday night, a series of storms will sweep across the state over the next 10 days and are expected to bring significant rainfall, strong winds, deep snow, as well as possible flash flooding and power outages.
The State Operations Center in Mather is being activated to coordinate a unified response to these storms among state, local and federal agencies.
Newsom also ordered the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) to lead an early, proactive effort to pre-position state personnel and equipment in communities most at risk of damage before the worst of the storms arrive.
The state is also taking steps to prepare for potential flooding by activating the Flood Operations Center for increased coordination and utilizing California spillways when necessary.
According to the National Weather Service, a significant series of weather systems will impact the state beginning this week, bringing moderate to heavy rainfall, accumulating snow in the mountains and wind gusts of 60 to 70 miles per hour.
Precipitation will begin in far northern California on Tuesday and spread to the rest of the state on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. This weather pattern will continue in the coming weeks, with above-normal precipitation expected across the state, especially in Southern California.
“The state is working around the clock with our local partners to deploy life-saving equipment and resources across the state. With more storms on the horizon, we will continue to mobilize all available resources to protect Californians,” Newsom said.
Authorities call for 5 things to keep in mind that you can do to stay safer:
- Stay connected. Californians are reminded to dial 311 for help or questions. If you are experiencing a critical emergency, call 911. Stay informed by signing up for emergency alerts, including evacuation warnings and advisories. Go to CalAlerts.org to sign up for alerts from your county officials. Check in with loved ones and neighbors.
- Get your information from trusted sources. During a disaster, it's critical to have accurate information. Check emergency management or state and local government websites and social media accounts for reliable information specific to your area. Local news outlets and meteorologists are also a good source of information. Be wary of posts from unknown sources on social platforms or from online 'experts' without credentials.
- Prepare for high winds. Before a high wind event: remove dead trees or overhanging branches near structures, remove loose roof material, bring unsecured items from patios and balconies, secure outdoor items that could blow away, securely close windows and secure exterior doors. During a high wind event: take cover next to a building or under a shelter, stay away from windows, stay away from roads and railroad tracks, avoid elevated areas such as rooftops, watch for flying debris.
- Travel safely. Avoid non-essential travel during the peak of the storm expected on Sunday and Monday. If you must drive, download the QuickMap app or visit QuickMap (ca.gov) for up-to-the-minute information on road conditions, traffic, closures and more. Do not walk, swim or drive through flood water. Turn around, don't drown! Remember, just six inches of moving water can knock you over and one foot of moving water can sweep away your vehicle.
- Be prepared for power outages. Take inventory of the items you need that rely on electricity. Keep your devices charged. Plan for batteries and other alternative power sources to meet your needs if the power goes out, such as a portable charger or power bank. Have flashlights for each member of the household. Also, plan accordingly for potential water outages.
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