Residents of Southern Marin are urged to take precautions as a significant weather system is expected to bring heavy rainfall and gusty winds to Northern California this week. The Atmospheric River system will likely cause flooding, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas, with the most severe impacts forecasted for the North Bay.
Hazard Overview
Storm Duration: Wednesday, November 20, through Tuesday, November 26, 2024.
Primary Concerns: Flooding, road closures, downed power lines, mudslides, and high winds.
For updates, visit the National Weather Service at www.weather.gov/mtr.
Preparation Tips
Before the Storm:
- Secure outdoor items: Bring in or firmly secure patio furniture, trash bins, and other loose items.
- Clear drains: Remove leaves and debris from gutters and storm drains to prevent blockages.
- Emergency kits: Ensure flashlights, batteries, radios, and emergency supplies are stocked.
- Sandbags: Protect homes and businesses in low-lying areas with sandbags. Supplies are available at specific local sites (see below).
- Work from home: Discuss remote work arrangements with your employer to avoid travel during potential flooding.
- Houseboat safety: Houseboat residents should secure their vessels against wind and waves.
- Alert systems: Sign up for emergency notifications via AlertMarin.
During the Storm:
- Avoid unnecessary travel, as wet roads and strong winds create hazardous conditions.
- If you must drive, use caution:
- Drive slowly, keep headlights on, and maintain extra distance between vehicles.
- Avoid flooded roads and obey all barricades.
- Downed power lines: Stay at least 30 feet away. Treat all fallen wires as live and call 911 immediately.
- Mariners are advised to stay in port as high winds and rough seas pose risks.
Power Outage Preparedness
- Fully charge devices and have portable chargers ready.
- Stock up on non-perishable food and water.
- Keep a manual garage door opener accessible.
- Monitor the PG&E Outage Map or call (800) 743-5002 for updates.
- For safety tips, visit the PG&E website.
Flooding and Road Closures
Check local websites, including those for Mill Valley and Sausalito, for up-to-date road closure information.
If traffic signals are non-operational, treat intersections as four-way stops.
Drive cautiously, especially near flood-prone areas like Miller Avenue and Redwood Hwy Frontage Road.
Sandbag Distribution Sites
Residents can pick up sand and sandbags at the following locations:
Mill Valley:
Fire Station #7, 1 Hamilton Drive
Boyle Park, 47 Thalia Street
Molino Drive at Cascade Drive
Sausalito:
Sausalito Corps Yard, 530 Nevada Street
MLK/Park School, 610 Coloma Street
Other Locations:
Tam Valley: Tennessee Valley Road at Marin Avenue
Tiburon: Blackie’s Pasture
Strawberry: Miland Drive near Seminary
Please bring your own tools and labor. Supplies are limited and may not be replenished during peak storm activity.
Mudslide Warning
Heavy rain can increase the risk of mudslides, particularly on steep slopes. Report unusual water runoff or signs of slope instability to local Public Works departments. In emergencies, dial 911.
Contact Numbers:
Sausalito: (415) 289-4106
Mill Valley: (415) 384-4800
Marin County Fire: (415) 499-6717
Tidal Flooding
High tides, combined with heavy runoff, may result in localized flooding on lower Miller Avenue, Camino Alto, and other vulnerable roads. Stay updated with tidal information to plan your travel accordingly.
Stay Informed
Sign Up for Alerts: Subscribe to emergency notifications via AlertMarin.
Monitor Updates: Follow the Southern Marin Fire District website at www.smfd.org.
Emergency Info: Visit Emergency.MarinCounty.org for resources and updates.
Prioritize safety during this storm and stay connected with local resources for real-time information.
