Newsom mobilizes state resources ahead of winter storm

CALIFORNIA – Governor Gavin Newsom announced December 22 that the state is taking coordinated action in advance of the expected severe weather.

The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts a strong atmospheric river to bring heavy rain, flooding, and snow to California through the holiday week.

Flash and urban flooding, mudslides, and rockslides in mountain areas are possible, with the heaviest rain expected Wednesday in the Los Angeles Basin and elsewhere in the state.

Newsom said the state’s response is focused on reducing impacts, protecting lives, and supporting local governments.

225 personnel have been pre-deployed across 12 counties

Ahead of the winter storm, state agencies have pre-positioned crews and equipment statewide.

At the governor’s direction, agencies are advancing readiness and response efforts.

Cal OES is moving to 24/7 operations and pre-deploying resources in coordination with local governments, focusing on wildfire burn areas at flood risk.

More than 225 personnel and extensive fire, rescue, aviation, and heavy equipment resources have been pre-deployed across Colusa, El Dorado, Glenn, Lake, Los Angeles, Marin, Mendocino, Nevada, Orange, Plumas, Sonoma, and Ventura counties.

The California National Guard has air and ground response assets on standby statewide.

Caltrans has pre-positioned crews and equipment for snow, flooding, and mudslide risks. Across the state, 77 locations hold 17,613 tons of salt for snow removal.

The CHP will oversee traffic, road closures, and storm-related collisions to protect public safety.

The Department of Water Resources has activated its Flood Operations Center to monitor rivers and coordinate with local, state, and federal partners. Four million sandbags, including 55,000 super sacks, are pre-positioned statewide to guard against flooding.

Safety tips

Sign up for local emergency alerts at Ready.ca.gov
Prepare an emergency go-bag with supplies, water, medication, and important documents.
Stay off the roads if possible. If travel is necessary, check conditions, drive slowly, and avoid standing water or debris.
Avoid floodwaters—six inches can knock you down, one foot can move a car.
Avoid parking under trees or power lines during high winds or heavy rain, as saturated soil can cause trees to uproot or fall unexpectedly.
Stay at least 30 feet from downed power lines and call 9-1-1 or your utility provider.
Check on neighbors, especially seniors or those with disabilities, to ensure they are safe.

For more information, visit https://news.caloes.ca.gov/stormseason/