County Office of Emergency Services Statement:
"The County of San Luis Obispo Office of Emergency Services is urging residents, businesses, and others to prepare ahead of time for the predicted storms soon to arrive in our county. The National Weather Service, a local PG&E weather forecaster and various private weather information providers are consistent in reporting the storm will be significant. With the potential for significant rainfall and strong winds, we should all be prepared.
Precautions include:
• For those living or working in flood prone areas or who otherwise think their home or business could be flooded should obtain sandbags ahead of time; many local equipment and feed and supply stores carry sandbags. Sandbag information is available at the County OES web site: http://www.slocounty.ca.gov/oes
• Be prepared for power outages including checking to make sure radios and cell phones are fully charged;
• Have back up batteries for portable radios, cell phones, and flashlights;
• Check roof drains to make sure they are clear;
• Stockpile needed emergency supplies and otherwise get as well prepared as possible.
Do not count on emergency response agencies such as fire departments or public works to be available to assist during times of significant weather events, as they may not have the resources available for non-immediate emergency needs and may have to prioritize responding to emergencies.
All county residents and visitors should be aware that no area is immune to flash flooding, including urban areas. Heavy rains can result in flash flooding that can inundate cars and cause
considerable damage. Water levels in small streams and empty river beds may rise quickly in heavy rainstorms and flash floods can begin before the rain stops falling. Flash floods can move at very fast speeds, and with incredible force.
Listen to radio and TV stations and check online Internet sources for updated weather information, including flash flood watches and warnings. Also consider purchasing a weather alert radio, which can be used to receive urgent weather messages.
Some actions to take during storms and after a flash flood warning include getting out of areas subject to flooding, including low lying areas; avoid flooded areas and high flow areas; do not drive through flood areas.
Remember, turn around, don’t drown.
Links to some local retailers who sell sandbags and general preparedness information can be found on the County OES web site at http://www.slocounty.ca.gov/oes County OES can be followed on Twitter: @slocountyoes."