Prepare for Christmas Storm

Happy Tuesday, District 5! I hope you all had a nice weekend and are looking forward to more time in celebration with family, friends, and loved ones as the holidays continue. 


As you may know, we are anticipating a storm system to hit our region this week, with rain forecasted today, Dec. 23rd, and expected to continue through Friday, Dec. 26th. The City of Long Beach is implementing its inclement weather action plans and will be monitoring and addressing major issues as they occur. See below for details from the city’s recent press release, with info, tips, and resources to help residents stay storm smart


To help conserve water and save money, Long Beach Utilities suggests turning off any automatic sprinklers or pool fill timers in advance of rainfall, and keeping them off until 48 hours after rain events. Learn more and review your water usage at lbutilities.org.

Stay dry!

Megan Kerr, Councilwoman

Long Beach, District 5

Disaster Preparedness & Emergency Communications


In anticipation of this storm, City crews have conducted inspections and performed maintenance to ensure catch basins in flood-prone areas are clear of debris, and pump stations and seawall plugs are functioning.


Visit longbeach.gov/LBRain and follow City social media pages at @LongBeachCity and #LBRain and #BeStormSmart for the latest storm safety educational resources, guidance on storm preparedness, and general emergency awareness best practices. 


In the event of an emergency the City will send emergency notifications via the Wireless Emergency Alert system. The City may also employ the use of an updated version of Alert Long Beach for community members that have previously signed up to receive notifications. We are not currently accepting new Alert Long Beach registrations at this time.

Homelessness Outreach & Inclement Weather Shelter


Our LBFD Marine Safety Swiftwater Rescue Team will conduct patrols along the riverbeds to advise people experiencing homelessness of the potential for fast rising and dangerous waters.


As of this morning, Dec. 23rd, through Friday, Dec. 26th, the City has also activated its Inclement Weather Shelter, located at the Multi-Service Center (1301 W 12th St.), for people experiencing unsheltered homelessness. The Homeless Services Bureau is conducting outreach to notify people of this shelter opportunity, and the city will continue to monitor weather conditions to determine whether activation should extend beyond Friday morning. 

Sandbags & Sand Distribution


The City has activated sandbag distribution sites for Long Beach residents, available now and throughout the duration of the storm. Residents can pick up empty sandbags at all Long Beach Fire Department neighborhood Fire Stations. Sand and sandbags are available at the following locations:

  • Lifeguard Station located at 72nd Place and Ocean Boulevard
  • Fire Station 7 (2295 Elm Ave.)
  • Fire Station 12 (1199 Artesia Blvd.)
  • Fire Station 13 (2475 Adriatic Ave.)
  • Fire Station 14 (off East Paoli Way and East 3rd Street)
  • Claremont Beach Lot (5400 E. Ocean Blvd.)
    

Residents are required to bring ID to pick up a maximum of 10 bags, and are advised to bring their own shovel and/or tool when collecting sand. Those needing specific assistance filling bags are advised to go to the Lifeguard Station at 72nd Pl. for additional support from 9a – 5pm on Dec. 23 & 24. Those with disabilities and access needs may request delivery of pre-filled sandbags by calling LBFD Community Services at 562-570-2525 until 5pm today, Dec. 23rd. Learn more in the press release.

Storm Smart Tips!


During periods of significant rainfall, residents are also advised to:

  • Check the Recreational Water Monitoring webpage for beach advisories. After any significant rainfall (0.10" or more), high levels of bacteria from storm drains, rivers and polluted runoff enter the ocean. People should avoid all ocean water contact for at least 72 hours after rainfall.
    
  • Avoid driving through a flooded road or walking across a flowing stream of water. Watch this storm ready safety video for safety tips while driving in flooded areas.
    
  • Slow down at intersections, especially if signal lights are not working, and treat them as stop signs. Be cautious while driving, especially at night.
    
  • Take appropriate steps to be prepared by securing personal property and vehicles in areas that are prone to flooding.
    
  • Avoid unnecessary trips. If you must travel during the storm, dress in warm, loose layers of clothing. Advise others of your destination and estimated arrival time.
    
  • Be aware of utility workers working in or near the road.
    
  • Stay off sand berms and stay away from City vehicles and machinery operating along the coastline.
    
  • Keep pets inside and ensure they have shelter from the storm.
    
  • Place refuse, recycling, and organics carts on the parkway or driveway apron, and ensure their lids are closed to ensure smooth service and processing of recyclables.
    
  • Report street flooding or downed trees by calling 562.570.2700.
    
  • Report downed power lines by calling 9-1-1.
    
  • To check the status of street sweeping in localized areas, call 562.570.2890 or follow @LBPublicWorks on Facebook, X and Instagram for timely updates.
    
  • Prepare for severe weather by following tips in the City’s Severe Weather brochure, also available in Spanish, Khmer, and Tagalog on the city's "Getting Prepared" webpage, along with several other disaster prep guides.
    
  • Be prepared if you are driving in a flooded area.


Additionally:

  • Marina slip permittees are encouraged to take precautions ahead of the storm to secure their vessel, including ensuring hatches and doors are closed and locked, removing loose gear from the exterior, ensuring fenders and vessel covers are properly placed, adjusted, and secured, and fastening all dock lines to account for any storm tidal surge. 
    
  • The dog park at El Dorado East Regional Park and the trails at the El Dorado Nature Center may be temporarily closed during and in the days following a storm. Patrons may still visit the museum inside the Nature Center during this time. Trails and road conditions at the El Dorado East Regional Park will be assessed daily and may close in select areas. For the most up to date information on El Dorado Park amenities, call 562-570-1745 or follow the Friends of El Dorado Nature Center and @LongBeachParks on social media. 

District 5 Field Office

Wardlow Park

3457 Stanbridge Ave.

Long Beach, CA 90808

Mon/Wed/Fri 1pm - 5pm

City Hall Office

411 West Ocean Blvd. 11th Floor

Long Beach, CA 90802

Phone: (562) 570-5555

Email: district5@longbeach.gov

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