Bay Area Experts on 5 Things You Should Do About El Niño
Bay Bridge (credit: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)
Californians have been told to expect a record-breaking El Niño this winter following four years of record-breaking drought conditions. Many experts aren't mincing their words regarding "mudslides, heavy rainfall, one storm after another like a conveyor belt," as described by Bill Patzert, climatologist for NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. In November, Patzert told the LA Times, "If you think you should make preparations, get off the couch and do it now. These storms are imminent. El Niño is here. And it is huge."
In late November, KPIX 5 Chief Meteorologist Paul Deanno reported that the El Niño pattern of super charged subtropical jet streams historically gets going in January and that the rains could last through spring 2016. Mike Pechner, who runs Golden West Meteorology told the San Francisco Chronicle, "The likelihood is the heaviest stuff will come in January, February and March."
Some recall the epic rains of 1998, when a record 27 inches fell on San Francisco in the first two months and nearly half of California was declared a federal disaster area. Officials are sharing the following advice.
The Red Cross has prepared a useful Flood Safety Checklist for flood preparedness kits, food, water and supplies, emergency evacuation and what to do after a flood. It's important to refresh your memory and inform others on what to do and not do at home, as well as when you're out in the car, should flash floods occur. The Red Cross suggests everyone understands the technical terms officials will use: A "flood/flash flood watch" means that flooding or flash flooding is possible in your area. A "flood/flash flood warning" means that flooding or flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area.
The risk of landslides increases with any heavy, quick rainfall. Following extreme drought, El Niño only increases that risk. Be on the lookout, as warnings can appear as cracks opening up in hillsides, especially in Bay Area hot spots like Marin County, South San Francisco, Castro Valley and Pacifica. The US Geological Survey requests these be promptly reported and that residents pay close attention to early warnings about storms, evacuations and flooding.
Avoid blockage from autumn leaves by clearing out gutters, rain spouts and exterior drains now. If you don't have access to check them, get in touch with a residential maintenance service or your building's management as soon as possible. Many home and building insurance policies do not include flood (and earthquake) coverage. FEMA officials are urging Californians to act quickly, as there is typically a 30-day waiting period for new flood insurance policies to go into effect.
When was the last time you reached for an umbrella? If El Niño predictions are accurate, you'll want better protection than even the sturdiest umbrella can provide. Check that you have waterproof storm chasers or knee-high rain boots with good traction for everyone in the family, including fast-growing children. Get as much protection as possible from wet and windy weather with water-repellent, hooded outerwear, plus hats and gloves that might be tucked away with the ski clothes and camping gear. It will come in handy on dull, wet mornings heading to the bus stop, the school bus or walking the dog.
Locate flashlights and batteries, safety candles and a lighter in case of a power outage. You can purchase a mini emergency radio that receives AM, FM and all seven NOAA weather stations. The latest ones come with an easy-to-find glow in the dark locator and a USB port to charge cell phones and other devices. You can also stay informed about weather events and any emergency by downloading phone apps you can use to receive emergency alerts right on your cellphone or tablet. Texts are sent through the same system that sends Amber alerts and San Francisco residents can sign up for the AlertSF system at www.alertsf.org.
