With two storms expected to arrive this week — Dec. 31 through Saturday, Jan. 3 — the National Weather Service has issued a local Flood Watch from 10 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31 to 10 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 1.
In advance of the inclement weather, the city of Goleta will have sandbags available at two locations, and is offering tips for staying safe during the storms.
According to the forecast, rainfall is expected to peak Wednesday night through Thursday morning for the first storm, and Friday night through Saturday morning for the second storm.
Showers are anticipated to be on and off over the four days, the city of Goleta reports.
Sandbags are available in Goletat the following sites:
• Fire Station 11, 6901 Frey Way and Storke Road, just south of Santa Felicia, across from the Main Post Office.
• Fire Station 14, 320 Los Carneros Road, next to the Stow House Museum lot.
Storm Safety:
• Stay away from burned areas, rivers, creeks, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations during a storm. Those living in areas prone to flooding should stay aware of changing conditions and be prepared to take protective actions, such as evacuating and sheltering in place.
• Roads impacted during previous storms may experience flooding, mud, and rockslides. Communities along these roads may become isolated.
• Beaches and bluffs may be affected by the storm. Coastal flooding and bluff erosion are possible. For your safety, residents and visitors are advised to avoid the 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 be impacted by strong winds, such as outdoor furniture.
Resources:
• Real-time Rainfall, River-Stream, & Reservoir Information: https://rain.cosbpw.net
• Storm readiness tips: http://www.readysbc.org/StormReadiness
• For status of highways: https://roads.dot.ca.gov/roadscell.php
• For status of county roadways: https://www.countyofsb.org/2116/Road-Closures
• For county sandbag filling locations: https://www.countyofsb.org/2219/Sandbags
• Sign up for ReadySBC Emergency Alerts: https://member.everbridge.net/index/892807736723794#/signup