What is happening?
Marin can expect heavier rain Wednesday, January 11 followed by more showers through the week with possible thunderstorms. Rain will continue through the weekend, with the possibility of another storm on Tuesday, January 17.
The County of Marin has proclaimed a local state of emergency because of the severe impacts of recent storms. Marin residents are urged to stay away from the coastal areas to keep rural roads accessible for emergency responders. People should also avoid surging creeks, streams, flooded roadways, and fallen power lines while eliminating nonessential travel during periods of severe weather.
Residents should expect these hazards to remain in the coming weeks and take steps to prepare.
Current advisories in effect
- Flood Watch in effect from January 11, 7:00 AM until January 12, 12:00 PM
- Wind Advisory in effect from January 11, 7:00 AM until January 11, 7:00 PM
What this means for residents
- Localized flooding will occur in low-lying areas or where storm drains or drainage systems are temporarily blocked by debris.
- Flooded and slick roadways that may prevent travel to/from some areas of Marin.
- Rapid rising creeks and streams with some likely to flood (local stream gauges).
- Power outages may result from flooding caused by rainfall.
- Possible slides (mud or debris).
What actions can I take to prepare and/or stay safe?
Before the storm
- Rake leaves and other yard debris and place in green bin (to keep out of gutters and storm drains)
- Have your go-bag ready, with items like a flashlight, extra batteries and more.
- Protect homes and businesses in low-lying flood-prone areas by making sandbags.
- Mariners / Houseboat occupants should secure vessel for severe wind and seas
- Secure outdoor objects that could be blown over by wind (e.g, patio furniture, sports equipment, trash cans, pop-up canopies)
- Sign up to receive AlertMarin emergency calls, text message or email alerts.
- Visit Emergency.MarinCounty.org for additional resources for preparing for a storm.
During the storm
- Avoid unnecessary travel. Wet and flooded roads make travel risky and may prevent you from returning home. Staying home is the safest option until the storm passes. If its an emergency, allow emergency responders to come to you.
- Use extra caution when driving. If you MUST leave your home, drive carefully: slow down, keep both hands on steering wheel, turn on head lights, allow extra space between vehicles, and watch for downed tree branches, trees, and powerlines.
- Stay away from downed power lines. Always assume a fallen power line is live and do not touch it with your hand or other object. Call 9-1-1 immediately to report the fallen line.
- Do not walk or drive through standing water. Turn around, do not drown. If it’s an emergency, allow emergency responders to come to you.
- Avoid the coast and beaches.
- Mariners / Houseboats should remain in port. Strong winds can cause hazardous seas which could capsize or damage vessels.
- Monitor Emergency.MarinCounty.org for the most up-to-date weather and emergency information.
Sandbags
Sand, bags, and shovels are available for Fairfax residents at the Skate Park (Pavilion Parking Lot).
Stay informed
- Remember that Emergency.MarinCounty.org is the go-to resident resource for emergency information throughout this storm event.
- National Weather Service: Website or Twitter