We remember all too well the storms that hit just over a year ago. Forecasts say that the atmospheric river bearing down upon us now could be just as strong. We've been through so many disasters in recent years. We'll get through this one, too! To ensure that, everyone is encouraged to be prepared. Charge all your devices. Charge your power banks, too (we at the BCBA have some for sale if you need one). Get weather alerts regularly. Get generators prepared for use. Get your go-bags ready just in case. Stay off the roads as much as possible. Get your chainsaws ready in case you need to move a fallen limb or tree in order to get to safety. You all know the drill.
If you haven't done so, it's highly recommended that you sign up for emergency alerts at www.CruzAware.org. You can also look up your evacuation zone at www.Community.ZoneHaven.com. For County road updates, visit www.SCCRoadClosure.org. And for State Highway conditions, visit www.Cruz511.org. If you need sand bags, go to tinyurl.com/FreeSandBags for a list of locations - please call ahead to verify availability!
Once the heavy rains begin, it's best to stay off the roads as much as possible. This not only ensures you remain in a safe place, but also keeps the roads clear for emergency crews that need to focus on the job at hand.
The Santa Cruz Mountains are expected to get up to 8 inches in some areas, with up to 2 inches per hour late Wednesday. Especially with saturated ground, this is likely to lead to flooding, fallen trees and damaged roads. Please take all precautions that you can to be safe. Check on your neighbors, friends and family to be sure they are safe. Be well.