Severe storms will continue to hit California this spring, so experts recommend taking steps to prepare for heavy rains.
The storms have had serious consequences, such as the breach of the Pajaro River dam, which affected more than 16,000 people due to evacuation orders, causing the state governor, Gavin Newsom, to declare a state of emergency.
So far there are 33 shelters in 14 counties in the state, around 15,800 people in evacuation and at least 6,800 without electricity, said Diana Crofts-Pelayo, spokeswoman for the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services —Cal OES—, in a press conference organized by Ethnic Media Services in which experts met to talk about the storms that have hit the state.
The situation is not simple, because according to Vance Taylor, head of the Office of Access and Functional Needs of Cal OES, the rains will impact the entire state, which will cause the number of people in shelters to increase.
Crofts-Pelayo noted that although the consequences have been severe, Governor Newsom has made efforts to have a coordinated response in such a way as to protect all affected communities.
In that regard, Corrin Buchanan, deputy secretary for strategic planning and policy at the California Health and Human Services Agency, reported that Cal OES and 20 other agencies are working as a priority with the homeless, people with medical conditions and disabilities, and residents of medical and non-medical facilities.
They urge to follow recommendations before strong storms in California
Crofts Pelayo said it is important for people to follow storm response recommendations from authorities and advised Californians to sign up for the state's alert system at CalAlerts.gov.
"If you are asked to vacate, do so immediately," he said.
She also recommended that people prepare themselves with an emergency kit that includes not only food and water but also important documents of family members.
Taylor stressed that it is important for people to charge their electronic devices such as cell phones and backup batteries in advance, as it is very possible that they will lose power due to storms, so she recommended connecting with relatives for support or shelter in case they need it.
Experts also noted the importance of the community staying together and helping each other, and encouraged people to learn about resources on the ListosCalifornia.org website.
"Sign up for free emergency alerts and know the different evacuation routes in your community, practice your plans and the steps necessary to stay safe," Taylor recommended, as the chances of communities being impacted and affected by heavy rains are very high.
Finally, experts cautioned that while the state is making extensive efforts, it is important for people to stay informed and do what they can to help others. Because storms are widespread events and many people are affected, the state may also reach a limit on what it can do to help.
It is important that those who are emotionally affected by the storms call 1-833-317-4673 and in the case of older adults 1-888-670-1360. Also, those who want assistance or resources can send an e-mail to us@mediaatcalis.ca.gov.
You may be interested in: More than 16,000 affected by evacuation orders after the dam breaks in the Pajaro River
