Evacuation Warning Issued in Sierra Madre Ahead of Storm
Warning in Place Until Friday Morning
Preparations are underway in areas near the Eaton Fire burn zone ahead of the storm as residents in Sierra Madre are under an evacuation warning. The warning signs of what could come are already up here on Mountain Trail Avenue.
Emergency Crews Urge Preparation and Readiness
Emergency crews say now is the time to prepare and to be ready to go at a moment’s notice. During the mid-February storms, there was a massive debris and rock flow in Little Santa Anita Creek, damaging homes and streets for blocks. During those storms a few weeks back, evacuation orders and warnings were in place. The potential for those flows happening again this week is why those evacuation warnings will start again later this morning.
Mudflow Risks and Safety Concerns
"If a mudflow occurs, public safety and public works personnel will not be able to enter an active debris flow zone. This means that if you stay behind, you may be trapped for days before emergency crews can reach you," Sierra Madre Fire Chief Brent Bartlett said.
Preparations and Sandbag Distribution
City officials want residents to prepare now before the rain hits. Free sandbags will be available today from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the city yards on East Sierra Madre Boulevard behind the YMCA. Every household is limited to 25 bags and people will need to show proof of residency. They will also need to bring their own shovel to scoop the sand into the bags.
Staying Informed
Residents can check the Genasys app for any evacuation warnings. The city says the zones won’t show on the map until the warnings begin.
Conclusion
As the storm approaches, it’s crucial for residents in Sierra Madre to take necessary precautions and warnings seriously. With the potential for debris and rock flows, it’s essential to be prepared and ready to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When will the evacuation warning be in place?
- The evacuation warning will be in place from 6 a.m. to Friday morning.
- Where can I get free sandbags?
- Sandbags will be available at the city yards on East Sierra Madre Boulevard behind the YMCA from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
- How many sandbags can I get?
- Each household is limited to 25 bags.
- Do I need to show proof of residency to get sandbags?
- Yes, you will need to show proof of residency.
- Can I use my own shovel to scoop sand into the bags?
- Yes, you will need to bring your own shovel.
- How can I stay informed about evacuation warnings?
- You can check the Genasys app for any evacuation warnings.
