Ahead of an incoming storm — Saturday, Feb. 17 through Wednesday, Feb. 21 — with the potential to produce localized flooding, flash flooding, and landslides, evacuation warnings have been issued starting today for the following areas in Santa Barbara County:
• Properties along waterways associated with the Thomas, Cave and Alisal burn areas.
• Properties in the vicinity of Sycamore Creek, from Stanwood Drive. down to parts of Ninos Drive, in Santa Barbara.
• Properties in the vicinity of Mission Creek, from Cota Street down to Highway 101 and between Chapala and Castillo streets in Santa Barbara.
Click here to access the interactive incident map.
The Evacuation Warnings remain in effect until further notice and may be upgraded to Evacuation Orders depending on localized conditions and changes to the weather forecast.
During an Evacuation Warning, community members living in the impacted areas are asked to:
• Prepare to leave: fill gas tank, load up important documents, essential items, etc.
• Leave if you feel unsafe. Do not wait for an evacuation order.
• People with disabilities, access and functional needs should leave now.
• People with large animals should leave now.
• Do not attempt to drive while it is dark or raining, as roads may be damaged or your car may be swept away by moving water or debris.
• Be prepared to sustain yourself and your household for multiple days if you choose not to evacuate, as you may not be able to leave the area and emergency responders may not be able to access your property in the event of road damage, flooding, or a debris flow.
Additionally, the following storm resources are available:
• For small animal shelter information, call Santa Barbara County Animal Services, 833-422-8413. This phone line is open until 6 p.m. Saturday Feb. 17, and 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday Feb. 18..
• For status of highways, visit Caltrans: https://roads.dot.ca.gov/roadscell.php
• For status of county roadways, visit County Public Works: https://www.countyofsb.org/2116/Road-Closures
Residents not living in evacuation warning areas are still advised to do the following:
• Stay away from burn scars, rivers, creeks, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Those living in areas prone to flooding should stay aware of changing conditions and be prepared to take protective actions, such as evacuating or sheltering in place.
• Roads impacted during previous storms may experience flooding, mud and rock slides. Communities along these roads may become isolated.
• Beaches, bluffs and the harbor area may be impacted. This storm may trigger coastal flooding and erosion along the bluffs throughout the county. Residents and visitors are advised to stay away from beach areas.
• Strong winds can cause power outages. Charge important electronic devices and be prepared in case an unexpected power outage occurs.
• Secure belongings that could get impacted by strong winds such as outdoor furniture.
For more about the evacuation warnings, and weather conditions, visit ReadySBC.org. .