SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, Calif. (KION) The Santa Cruz County Emergency Operations Center is monitoring this weekend’s storm for any possible debris flow issues.
The county said precipitation expected on Sunday could reach debris flow thresholds in the CZU burn scar area.
Evacuation warnings have been issued in parts of the county. These areas can be found in this article.
Residents are asked to check their area on the Community areahaven website. All evacuation orders or warnings will be sent through these areas.
“People, in general, this winter need to be prepared for the evacuation potential. For this storm, we plan to evacuate part of the community,” said Mark Strudley, program manager for flood control and Santa Cruz County Division. “People have to be prepared to leave temporarily to get out of harm’s way.”
People can also sign up to receive alerts on scr911.org, download the CodeRED app or send SCR911 to 99411.
Strudley says debris flow problems can last for years after a major fire.
Caltrans is also preparing for possible road closures and debris flow issues.
“It was just at the end of January when we experienced a very significant rain event. So I think with that fresh in our memory, we will continue this weekend to conduct our usual storm patrol on all state highways, ”said Kevin Drabinski, Public Information Officer for Caltrans 5 District.
Earlier this year, heavy rains in the Big Sur area caused the collapse of Highway 1. Drabinski says another event like this is unlikely.
“A lot of people don’t realize that there is a whole system of culverts going from the hill under the highway.
with an outlet to the ocean. We continue to maintain these culverts to keep them open, ”said Drabinski.
Caltrans also has culverts in areas that have recently experienced wildfires, including the Santa Cruz Mountains, near the Dolan Fire burn scar and even the recent Alisal fire in Santa Barbara County.
The California Highway Patrol is also warning drivers to be careful in wet weather. They have already had to react to multiple fatal crashes in recent days.
“Make the road easier for yourself. Use your lights if you use your wiper blades. Don’t go through any flooded area you might see and stay home if you can,” Drabinski said.
