What is happening?
A storm system is set to bring heavy rain, strong winds and dangerous water conditions from Wednesday night through Saturday. Expect 3-4 inches of rain countywide, with 4-6 inches in areas like Tamalpais-Homestead. Winds will reach 35-40 mph, with gusts up to 70 mph. The heaviest impacts are expected overnight Wednesday through Thursday evening, with the rain starting to ease off on Friday. With recent wet weather saturating the soil and raising water levels, flooding risks are elevated. Expect rising creeks & streams, localized flooding in low-lying areas, and potential road closures.
Large breaking waves up to 45 feet will cause significant beach erosion and create life-threatening conditions along the coast. Entering the water is extremely dangerous—even experienced swimmers can suffer from cold water shock.
The National Weather Service has issued the following for Marin County:
- High Wind Watch in effect from 10:00 pm Wednesday, February 12 through Friday, February 14.
- Flood Watch in effect from 10:00 pm Wednesday, February 12 through Saturday, February 15
- High Surf Warning in effect from Thursday, 3:00 pm February 13 through Saturday, February 15.
What could this mean for Marin residents?
- Flooding: Low-lying areas or places with blocked storm drains could flood, especially in flood-prone areas.
- Road hazards: Roads may become slick and flooded. Debris and mudslides are possible on steep hillsides.
- High water levels: Streams and creeks could rise, possibly reaching flood levels in some areas.
- Wind damage: Strong winds may knock down tree branches and blow around unsecured objects.
- Power outages: Heavy wind and rain could cause power outages.
What actions can I take to prepare and/or stay safe?
Before the storm
- Stock up now: Get your grocery shopping and other essentials done before the storm. Avoid elective travel during the peak of the storm.
- Secure outdoor items: Tie down or bring in patio furniture, trash cans, and other loose items.
- Clear drains: Rake leaves and yard debris to keep gutters and storm drains clear. Place leaves and debris in green bin.
- Sandbags: Use sandbags to protect flood-prone areas of your home or business.
- Houseboat safety: Secure your vessel against high winds.
- Plan ahead: Talk to your employer about working from home, especially if you live in an area prone to road flooding.
- Update your emergency kit: Make sure you have flashlights, radios, spare batteries, and other essentials.
- Sign up for alerts: Register for emergency notifications at AlertMarin.
- Stay informed: Visit Emergency.MarinCounty.gov for tips and resources.
During the storm
- Stay home if possible: Avoid unnecessary travel—flooded roads and dangerous conditions can put you at risk. If it’s an emergency, let first responders come to you.
- Drive with caution: If you must go out, slow down, keep headlights on, watch for obstacles, and leave extra space between vehicles. Never drive through flooded areas or around barricades.
- Turn around, don’t drown: Never walk or drive through standing water—it’s impossible to gauge depth or current.
- Steer clear of downed power lines: Always assume fallen power lines are live. Stay away and call 9-1-1 to report them.
- Mariners and houseboats: Stay in port. High winds and rough waters can cause significant damage or capsize vessels.
Stay informed: Check Emergency.MarinCounty.gov for the latest storm updates.