As a powerful storm system prepares to quickly bear down on the Los Angeles/Long Beach area, local officials are calling for residents to brace themselves for a series of heavy showers and high winds through Wednesday, Feb. 21. According to the City of Long Beach, coastal neighborhoods and other flood-prone zones could see significant impact, prompting an advisory for Long Beach residents to take caution and prepare to weather the storm.
Reginald Harrison, the city's Director of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Communications, emphasized the need for early precautions. The coordinated efforts include the distribution of sandbags throughout the city and maintenance checks on critical flood defense systems. "Residents should call 9-1-1 for emergencies," Harrison said, underlining the gravity of the approaching weather conditions. In preparation, residents are encouraged to pick up sandbags at Long Beach Fire Department stations to protect their homes from possible floodwater.
Captain Jake Heflin of the Long Beach Fire Department urged the community to remain vigilant and use the sandbags and other available resources to safeguard their properties. "Protective berms remain built and fortified in vulnerable beach areas to safeguard residents and property," Heflin stated, shedding light on the city's ongoing efforts to minimize damage and bolster coastal defenses. Residents can source sandbags at selected self-service stations, though they should be aware of potential limits on availability.
The City of Long Beach has not just prepared physically for the storm but is also prioritizing resident communication and awareness. Homeless individuals in the area are being contacted proactively to prevent possible injuries or worse from the swiftly rising waters expected in the riverbeds. "People experiencing homelessness are being advised of the potential for fast rising and dangerous waters," mentioned the city's outreach team. In a bid to reduce the risk of waterborne hazards post-storm, the city also advises a 72-hour avoidance of ocean water contact following significant rainfall due to likely bacterial contamination.
Moreover, the city administration is calling upon the residents to stay informed through Alert Long Beach, a free emergency notification system that provides updates on severe weather conditions. The importance of preparation was echoed in the city’s Severe Weather brochure, which is available in multiple languages and details how to prepare for heavy rainfall and flooding. The city is actively working to ensure safety and provide guidance through regular updates on beach advisories, and by keeping the public roads and infrastructures clear of debris to maintain accessibility and reduce accidents.
To report emergencies or to seek aid, residents are advised to call designated numbers for different concerns such as street flooding, downed trees, and power lines. For those venturing out in potentially hazardous conditions, safe driving protocols have been stressed, including slowing down at intersections and being cautious during the night. Additionally, the city's public works are updating the community on the status of street sweeping and operational facilities via their social media outlets.
