A powerful storm is expected to bear down on Southern California this week, and to prepare, the City of Long Beach is offering bins of sand and empty bags for residents today.
“City crews are preparing for the storm with a coordinated, multi-department response by clearing thousands of catch basins; cleaning and testing 26 pump stations; fortifying sand berms on the beach; installing debris booms to prevent trash from entering the marina areas; maintaining storm run-off culverts on the beaches; installing plugs in the Naples sea wall to prevent flooding, as appropriate; deploying additional staff, including Swiftwater rescue teams, and equipment; and closely monitoring the situation,” city officials said in a statement.
Bins of sand and empty bags will be available beginning at 4:30PM today at the following locations:
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- Public Works San Francisco Yard, 1651 San Francisco Ave., (enter off Esther Street)
- Fire Station 14, 5200 Eliot Ave.
- Fire Station 12, 1199 E. Artesia Blvd.
Residents are required to bring their own shovels and are limited to filling 10 bags.
The city is also advising residents to:
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- Avoid areas that are subject to sudden flooding.
- Do not attempt to drive through a flooded road, or walk across a flowing stream of water where the water is near or above your knees.
- Slow down at intersections, especially those with non-working signal lights, 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 and recycling carts on the parkway or driveway apron.
- Report street flooding or downed trees by calling 562-570-2700.
- Stay informed: The City of Long Beach will provide important storm updates via Twitter @LongBeachCity.