Storm Preparations: Feb. 2, 2024

The National Weather Service has updated its projections for the storm that will arrive on Saturday evening. Here’s the current situation:

February 3-7, 2024

  • Evacuation WARNINGS have been issued in the city of Santa Barbara and properties near the Thomas, Cave and Alisal burn areas.

  • National Weather Service is indicating that the storm has the potential to be a “life-threatening flooding situation.”

  • Rain starting Saturday night, peak rain still Sunday to Monday night.

  • System bringing 3-6” countywide and 6-12” in the mountains and foothills.

  • Winds of 55-60+ MPH are expected along with large seas.

Public Information:

  • Office of Emergency Management (OEM) encourages the public to monitor the weather at www.weather.gov/lox or through our local news and radio stations.

  • Information is being shared through the County and OEM social media sites.

  • OEM has launched a webpage in English and Spanish specific to this incident. You can go to www.ReadySBC.org and click on the red banner at the top.

  • Information on storm readiness can be found at www.readysbc.org/576/Storm-Readiness.

The Chumash Fire Department is making preparations and will be on hand to monitor the situation. Sandbags are available in the Tribal Hall overflow parking lot, so please help yourselves as needed. For sandbag assistance, contact our Chumash Fire Department at 805-325-3043.

As always, please keep the following in mind:

  • Falling trees and downed powerlines: Ground saturation is causing larger trees to fall, which could lead to downed powerlines. Avoid touching the downed line with your hand or any objects. If you notice a downed powerline, call 911.

  • Creek: Avoid the creek and creek banks, as water levels are expected to rise.

  • Prepare for power outages: Keep flashlights in reach, plan for batteries and other alternative power sources to meet your needs, etc.

For emergencies, please dial 911. If you notice fallen trees or non-emergency problem areas on the Reservation, incidents can be reported by filling out a form on the Chumash Fire Department’s web page. Click here to file a report. Once the report is submitted, Chumash Fire personnel will be notified and may contact you for further information.

We will provide further updates as needed.

Sincerely,

Gilbert Romero
Assistant Fire Chief
Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians

Gilbert Romero, Assistant Fire Chief