Major Storm to Impact LA Sunday-Tuesday

The City of Los Angeles Emergency Management Department sent out the following alert. (If you did not receive it, please be sure you are signed up for notifications at NotifyLA.)

The National Weather Service is forecasting a major storm from Sunday, February 4th through at least Tuesday, February 6th. All of Los Angeles is expected to receive 3-6 inches of rain, with 6-12 inches possible in the foothills. The storm will bring damaging winds and heavy rain. Impacts in the area could include power outages, debris flows, and flooding both in rapidly rising creeks and streams and in roads and freeways.

Before the storm:

Secure your outdoor space- move furniture, umbrellas, and other light weight items to indoor or secured areas so they do not fly away
Gather emergency supplies that will allow you to shelter in place during the storm, including food, water, radios, medication, and pet supplies
Prepare for power outages with batteries, flashlights, backup cell phone chargers and charging cables
Sign up to receive text, email, and phone call emergency alerts for your home, work, and school at NotifyLA.
Pick-up sandbags from your local fire station.
Prepare medical devices and cell phones for potential power outages by charging them completely and getting back-up systems ready
Check in on your neighbors to make sure they know about the storm conditions and are prepared
Check storm drains where you live and in your neighborhood to make sure they are cleared of debris

During the storm:

Avoid driving if at all possible. Dangerous road conditions are anticipated throughout the region. Do not attempt to drive through flooded roads
Bring pets inside during the storm to keep them safe from falling debris
Call 911 for life-threatening situations, such as people trapped by flooding or damaged trees, and debris flows threatening buildings
If you see flooding, fallen trees, or other significant damage that isn’t immediately life threatening, report it via 311, which will be operating with extended hours during the storm. Call 3-1-1 or visit the website.
Assume all downed power lines are electrified and dangerous. Report power issues to the Department of Water and Power by calling 1-800-342-5397
Do not operate generators indoors or in garages. Generator operation tips can be found here.
Monitor Emergency Management Department for information on the latest storm updates and City response

Be sure your sprinklers are turned off and your trash cans are on the curb, not in the street.