The National Weather Service issued a flood watch for the rain storm expected to drop several inches of rain on Santa Barbara County from Thursday through Saturday.
The flood watch is in effect from 4 p.m. Thursday to 4 a.m. Saturday.
“Current forecasts indicate this storm is likely to cause excessive runoff which may result in dangerous flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low lying and flood prone areas,” the county Office of Emergency Management said in an emergency message sent out Wednesday evening.
No evacuation warnings or orders were announced as of Thursday morning.
The National Weather Service said Thursday afternoon that Santa Barbara County has a moderate threat of significant road and stream flooding, with the highest threat in North County. There’s a low threat of river flooding and swift water rescues on the Sisquoc River and Santa Ynez River, according to the NWS.
County and city sandbag stations were open Thursday, with some offering sand and bags and some just offering sand.
The City of Santa Barbara, which had several neighborhoods flood during the Jan. 9 storm, has its self-serve sandbag station open until 4 p.m. Thursday at 401 E. Yanonali St.
Residents can call 805.564.5454 to report clogged or blocked storm drains or street-related emergencies.
Click here for a full list of sandbag station locations in Santa Barbara County.
National Weather Service meteorologist Rich Thompson told Noozhawk staff writer Serena Guentz that the rainfall will gradually increase Thursday night into Friday and continue through Saturday morning, dropping an expected 2-4 inches throughout Santa Barbara County
“Definitely a good, soaking rain,” Thompson said.
The County Office of Emergency Management’s storm-related message is below. Sign up for emergency alerts and messages through the readysbc.org website.
“A FLOOD WATCH has been issued for Santa Barbara County effective at 4 PM Thursday, March 9th through 4 AM Saturday, March 11th. Avoid low-lying and flood-prone areas, areas with standing water, and areas near creeks or streams. If you are in one of these areas be prepared to go to higher ground. Visit www.weather.gov/lox for more information.
Another rain system is expected to arrive in Santa Barbara County on Thursday, March 9, 2023. Rainfall is predicted to start Thursday evening and remain consistent through Saturday morning. There is a small potential for thunderstorms which could produce heavier rainfall. Current forecasts indicate this storm is likely to cause excessive runoff which may result in dangerous flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low lying and flood prone areas.
Residents should take steps to prepare ahead of the storm. https://www.countyofsb.org/576/Storm-Readiness
If you are concerned that this storm may cause unsafe conditions to your home, leave the area before rain starts. Do not wait for an official evacuation notification to leave.
If you feel unsafe during the rainfall, shelter in place in your home by gathering your family and pets in the inner most room of your house, preferably on the top floor if you live in a multi-story home.
Do not attempt to drive at night or while it is raining, as roads may be damaged and your car may be swept away by moving water or debris.
Public safety officials are keeping a close eye on the incoming storm. Officials will continue to work together to further assess if emergency protective actions are necessary, such as an evacuation warning, evacuation order, or shelter in place.”