Flood Warning Issued and More Updates during Winter Storm

The storm is here. For the past several days, City of Santa Rosa crews have been busy working and preparing the city for storm-related incidents. We expect damaging winds and significant rain in Santa Rosa. With severe weather, avoid all unnecessary travel.

THE LATEST WEATHER FORECAST
The National Weather Service upgraded the Flood Watch to a Flood Warning. The Flood Warning will be in effect until at least 10:30 p.m. this evening. A High Wind Warning is also in effect until tomorrow morning (1/5). Strong thunderstorms are forecasted for tonight (1/4) with the associated strong damaging winds being the primary concern. Winds are expected to weaken tomorrow morning (1/5), but rain and possible thunderstorms will continue throughout the day.

Earlier today, the National Weather Service (NWS) reported light to moderate rain as a preview of tonight’s storm. We will experience the most significant impact in Santa Rosa now through approximately 10 p.m. Rainfall amounts are still expected at 3-4” of rain in the city and 4-6” in the hills. Also, NWS expects 20-30 mph sustained winds and 40-50 mph gusts in the lowlands. There is still a concern about downed trees and power outages due to the winds and the soil being saturated from previous rains.

More storms and even stronger winds are forecasted for our area starting Friday (1/6) and continuing into early next week. The next storm is anticipated for Saturday into Sunday with stronger winds, and then another storm Monday (1/9) into Tuesday (1/10).

Check the current status of weather watches and warnings on the National Weather Service’s website here. Visit SRCity.org/WinterStorm for the latest updates and more information on the storm and preparedness.

BE ALERT FOR:

• Downed trees and branches, potentially blocking roads or damaging property.
• Power outages are likely. If you spot a downed power line or a tree down into a power line, please call 9-1-1 to report it.
• Flooding, especially in areas with poor drainage.
• Standing water in roadways.
• High-intensity rain may cause debris flows in the Glass Fire burn scar area.

SAND AND SANDBAGS ARE STILL AVAILABLE FOR CITY RESIDENTS:
Free sand and bags are available to City of Santa Rosa residents at the City’s sandbag filling station at the City Municipal Services Center North at 55 Stony Point Road. The sandbag filling station is open 24/7 throughout the rainy season. You must present an ID with a City of Santa Rosa address to access the sandbag filling station. Shovels are on site to use for loading bags. Plan to transport the sandbags in a vehicle you don't mind getting dirty!


SAFETY TIPS DURING A STORM:

• Avoid unnecessary travel and slow down to a speed safe for the conditions.
• Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwater rises around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and the vehicle can be quickly swept away.
• Do not walk in moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you must walk in water, walk where the water is not moving.
• Never drive over a downed power line.
• The use of candles during a power outage is discouraged. If you do use them, do not leave candles unattended.

MORE RESOURCES AND INFORMATION FOR SANTA ROSA:

• Flood Forecast Hotline: 707-526-4768
  • The Flood Forecast is a recording that provides updates on local river conditions. The recordings are updated by the Sonoma County Water Agency as conditions change.
• Stream Maintenance: 707-521-1845
  • Report any stream-related issues, such as debris or stream channel changes, to prevent localized flooding.
• Downed Trees blocking the Public Right of Way: 707-543-3770
  • Report trees blocking roadways, sidewalks, and creeks, during office hours, 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m., and after hours at 707-543-3805. In the event of an emergency, such as downed power lines or a tree causing an immediate life/safety issue, immediately call 9-1-1.
• Roadway Flooding: 707-543-3800
  • Report minor flooding in the roadway during business hours. After hours, call 707-543-3805.
• Power Outages: 1-800-743-5000
  • Please report power outages to PG&E.

Go to SRCity.org/WinterStorm for more information and updates about this winter storm.