The National Weather Service is forecasting a potentially major storm for Santa Barbara County with the possibility for localized flooding in Goleta.

To help mediate flood impact, city residents can pick up free sandbags at the following locations:

• 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.

Things to know about sandbag pick-up:
• Sand and bags are available on a first come, first served basis.
• Bring a shovel to fill the bags.
• Pick-up is open during daylight hours, seven days/week.
• 20 bag limit (additional bags can be purchased at home improvement stores).
• Bags are intended for Goleta community members. Please don’t take more than you need to allow others who may need the sand and bags more.
• It is easiest to fill the bags with two people; one to hold the bag and the other to shovel the sand.

Precautions and tips to stay safe:
• If a Flash Flood Warning is issued, stay off roads and move away from waterways.
• In general, stay away from rivers, creeks, streams, recent wildfire burn areas, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. 
• Residents and visitors are advised to stay away from beach areas. This storm may trigger erosion along the bluffs throughout the county.
• 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 umbrellas, sports equipment, and outdoor furniture. 
• Take care of those who might not be aware of the weather hazard or be able to react accordingly, especially the elderly, young children, and pets.
• If you hear thunder, go indoors. Wait 30 minutes after the storm has passed before resuming outdoor activities.

Resources:
• 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