What you need to know: As strong storms continue to impact the state, California has pre-deployed more resources and personnel to Riverside, Ventura, San Bernardino, and Los Angeles counties to protect communities from potential impacts, particularly in burn scarred areas.
LOS ANGELES – As the first significant statewide storm of the season visits California, Governor Gavin Newsom today announced additional pre-deployment of specialized emergency response resources to Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura and Los Angeles counties. This is in addition to previous resource pre-deployments in Los Angeles, Ventura and Orange counties.These proactive efforts protect communities and mitigate the impacts of natural disasters.
“When severe weather threatens our communities, we don’t wait to react – we get ahead of it. California’s world class resources and highly skilled personnel are essential elements of the state’s emergency rescue and response framework.”
Governor Gavin Newsom
Pre-deployment efforts ensure that resources are ready to respond quickly, minimizing the potential impact of mud and debris flows and potential flash flooding, especially in areas that have burned in recent wildfires.
The additional pre-deployment in Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura and Los Angeles counties now brings the total pre-deployment of resources in the five counties to more than 400 total personnel, including 29 engines, four Urban Search & Rescue companies, eight dozers, five Swiftwater teams, four helicopters, and seven dispatchers, beginning Thursday, Nov. 13, at 8 a.m. through Sunday, Nov. 16, at 8 a.m.
Local fire agencies identify when conditions in communities may require additional resources and submit requests to the state for support. The staging locations and response assignments are coordinated by local officials. The California Fire and Rescue Mutual Aid System remains available for local fire officials to request additional resources during an incident if necessary.
Prepare now
All Californians should take proactive steps to stay safe and alert as heavy rain and flooding potentially impact the state this week. Protect yourself and your loved ones by following these official California safety recommendations:
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Sign up for emergency alerts and follow instructions from local officials.
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Monitor the news and other trusted sources of information to be aware of mudslides and debris flows, especially in burn scar areas.
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Prepare an emergency go-bag with essential supplies, water, medication, and important documents. Find a full checklist here.
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Stay off the roads whenever possible. If travel is unavoidable, check real-time conditions and drive at reduced speeds, avoiding standing water or debris on the roadway.
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Never walk or drive through floodwaters—turn around, don’t drown. Even six inches of moving water can sweep a person off their feet, and as little as one foot can carry a vehicle away.
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Avoid parking under trees or power lines during high winds or heavy rain, as saturated soil can cause trees to uproot or fall unexpectedly.
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If you see a downed power line, always assume it is energized—stay back at least 30 feet and call 9-1-1 or your utility provider.
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Check on neighbors, especially older adults or those with disabilities or access and functional needs, to ensure they are safe.
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Stay updated on storm impacts and emergency information at the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services or prepare ahead through Listos California.
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Learn more by watching this video here.
For more information on storm safety and general preparedness, visit Ready.ca.gov.