Unusually snowy conditions in the mountains, strong winds, and rain are forecasted this Thursday through Saturday, and the Los Angeles Fire Department has sent out tips for residents to be ready.
The storm will bring gusts as high as 75 mph; 1 to 5 inches of snow could fall in mountains north of L.A. as low as 1,500 feet and elevated flood risks to the rest of L.A., according to the department. The National Weather Service says traveling through the mountains may be very difficult, or even impossible.
With this in mind, the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) has some recommendations for people to prepare for the storm:
Ahead of bad weather you should…
- Install the Red Cross Emergency App: Receive weather alerts and find Red Cross shelters.
- Review your Family Emergency Plan: Create strategies in case of a flood, mudslide, or serious storm damage. Remember to plan for pets, older adults, and those with special needs.
- Prepare battery-powered lamps (no candles).
- Inspect your Emergency Supply Kit: It should have food, water, medication, a battery-operated radio, rain gear, first aid and sanitation supplies.
- Prepare for a possible insurance claim: Narrate a “video tour” of your entire home to give to your insurance company. It helps to photograph receipts of major items, too. Keep a copy of the insurance phone number and your policy number in your phone.
- Prepare your go-bag. Here is a handy video on essentials.
What can I do around my home to prevent damage?
- Clear water channels — such as drains, gutters, troughs, pipes, culverts — free of debris.
- Keep sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting, lumber, and hand tools handy for storm…
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