Stormy Days Ahead: How to Stay Safe and Ready

Southern California is preparing for a significant storm, with the primary concern being mudslides and flash floods, particularly in areas recently affected by fires. While some residents are taking precautions, others are not heeding the warnings.

Areas at Risk

• Altadena: Residents who experienced fires earlier this year are taking different approaches.
• Some are evacuating, having witnessed the devastation heavy rain can bring to burned areas.
• Others, like Austin Solliday, are staying in makeshift homes—a trailer and a tent—hoping to weather the storm.

Storm Details

• Peak Impact: Expected on Saturday, from early morning to evening.
• Unpredictability: The storm is spinning like a top, which could prolong its duration and make it harder to predict the heaviest rain areas.

Safety Measures

Experts advise being overprepared rather than underprepared. Key recommendations include:

• Emergency Kit: Pack food, water, and a first-aid kit.
• Family Plan: Establish an evacuation plan and know where to go if necessary.

Public Response

• Apathy in Altadena: Some residents, still recovering from recent fires, are not taking the warnings seriously.
• Proactive Steps: Others are taking measures like setting up sandbags and barriers to protect their homes.

Current Conditions

• Rainfall: Already beginning in some areas, expected to intensify on Saturday.
• Highest Risk: Mudslides and flash floods will be most dangerous during this time.

Safety Tips

• Know Your Flood Risk: Check online to see if your home is in a flood zone.
• Evacuation Plan: Have a go-bag ready with essentials like documents, medication, and other necessities.
• Driving Safety:
• Avoid flooded streets, even if they appear shallow.
• Use headlights when windshield wipers are on.
• Drive slowly.

Conclusion: The storm is approaching, and preparation is crucial. Do not wait until it's too late to get ready.