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• Storm Report: Severe Weather Outlook & Flood Watch in Effect
• Permit View: New Online Permit Activity Search
• Climate Action Blog: Ways You Can Achieve Sustainable Goals in 2026  
• Online Surveys Open Now: Help Shape the Future of the Palo Alto City Library & Council Annual Priorities 

Storm Report: Severe Weather Outlook & Flood Watch In Effect

The National Weather Service updated their forecast for the series of storms to hit the Bay Area this week noting possible flash flooding, high winds, and thunderstorms. A Flood Watch is in effect due to heavy rain with periods of moderate to heavy rain fall expected for the Bay Area, including Palo Alto, through Friday, December 26. Storm impacts could include water ponding in local roadways, down tree limbs/debris, and possible power outages. While flood risk is low at this time, staff will be monitoring conditions and share another update should conditions change significantly. Sign-up for emergency alerts, secure outdoor furniture and storage, clear storm drains and check in on neighbors. If your property is prone to flooding, consider picking up sandbags at Palo Alto locations as a precaution. Drive safely and report any neighborhood impacts through Palo Alto 311. Read the full update and gain additional storm resources at www.PaloAlto.gov/StormUpdate.

Permit View: New Online Permit Activity Search

Permit View continues existing access to Building, Planning, and Code Enforcement activity. It replaces BuildingEye and offers enhancements such as searching by assessor’s parcel number, defining custom geographic areas for searches, and subscribing to email notifications based on a custom user-drawn boundary. Existing BuildingEye subscribers will need to create a new Permit View account as BuildingEye data will not be updated after December 31, 2025. Learn more: www.paloalto.gov/PermitView. 

Climate Action Blog: Ways You Can Achieve Sustainable Goals in 2026 

The holidays are here, and we wish you a season of joy, restoration, and togetherness. As we look ahead to the new year, find possible new year’s resolutions and resources helping you make sustainable living easier, supporting community health and saving you money too.

Online Surveys Open Now: Help Shape the Future of the Palo Alto City Library & Council Annual Priorities

Share Input to Help Inform Palo Alto Library’s Strategic Plan Effort 

The Palo Alto City Library is currently working on its next strategic plan. Share your feedback to help us identify key priorities for enhancing services and building strong community connections. Learn more about the library and take our survey by January 20, 2026.

Provide Feedback on the Council’s Annual Priorities

The City Council will discuss progress achieving their 2025 priorities on January 12 and the Council Retreat is set for Saturday, January 24. Share input on the Council’s Annual Priorities by January 11 and join the Council at their retreat in-person or virtually.

Have a Healthy Holiday Season: Stay healthy this holiday season with simple strategies to combat winter's challenges. Stay hydrated by balancing festive beverages with plenty of water. Resist the urge to skip your usual fitness routine; indoor workouts or walking outside in layers can help keep you active. Plus, remember to practice good hygiene by washing hands regularly and staying current with vaccinations to fend off winter illnesses.

Mindful Winter Wellness: Improve your mental well-being this winter by embracing mindfulness. Seize the present moment with meditation and breathing exercises to alleviate stress and stay socially connected to elevate your mood and create a joyful holiday season.

Recipe of the Week: Discover a dish that transforms carrots into a show-stopping side! Maple Mustard Glazed Carrots with Whipped Ricotta deliver a perfect blend of sweet and savory with a spiced maple mustard glaze. These caramelized carrots rest on a creamy ricotta base, ready in just 35 minutes with simple ingredients, and are perfect for holiday gatherings.

Movies & More – Cubberley Movies, UNFF Movie Documentary, Stage Performances: Don’t miss these enriching community experiences coming up in the new year. Dive into the world of performance with the Acting for Stage & Camera Workshop, a three-part series starting January 3; perfect for teens and adults looking to explore acting skills. Enjoy the last in the series of family-friendly films at Cubberley Movie Nights on January 14 from 5 to 9 p.m. Discover compelling stories with the UNAFF Documentary Series screening of "The Librarians" on February 22 at Mitchell Park Library.

Lunar New Year: Celebrate the Lunar New Year with the Palo Alto City Library on January 25 from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Mitchell Park Community Center. Enjoy cultural performances, crafts, presentations from the Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo, and light snacks. Ideal for families with children aged 3-11, but all are welcome. Seating is limited, so arrive early!

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