LACOE has been actively monitoring the storm throughout the weekend and communicating with the 80 school districts, including LAUSD, and emergency services to ensure the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and families.

FLOOD WATCH ISSUED

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Flood Watch for Los Angeles County through Tuesday afternoon.

According to the NWS, “dangerous and life-threatening flooding is possible with this event. Extensive roadway flooding is likely. Significant debris flows are possible in and around recent burn scars. Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks. Mainstem rivers are also at risk of significant flooding. In addition, extensive rock and mudslide activity will likely occur on mountain and canyon roadways, which could cause significant travel delays and road closures.”

Actions to Take:

·         Stay Informed: Regularly check updates and follow advisories from official weather and emergency management agencies.

·         Preparation: Ensure your emergency kits are updated, and consider necessary precautions to protect your property and loved ones.

·         Evacuation Orders: Pay close attention to evacuation orders or advisories from local authorities. Safety should be your utmost priority.

• The LA County Department of Public Works has a list of locations where you can find sand bags.

• Call 211 to find a shelter location.

Stay Connected for Real-Time Updates:

·         LA County Alert System: We strongly encourage you to sign up for the LA County Alert System for real-time notifications. Register here: https://ready.lacounty.gov/alerts/

·         Follow on Social Media: For continuous updates, follow the Los Angeles County Office of Emergency Management on X: https://twitter.com/countyofla

• Follow on Social Media: For continuous updates, follow the National Weather Service account for Los Angeles County on X: https://twitter.com/nwslosangeles

• For additional information, visit the National Weather Service webpage for Los Angeles County: https://www.weather.gov/lox/  

Your safety is our primary concern. Please take all necessary precautions to prepare for this storm. Should you have any questions or need further assistance, do not hesitate to reach out to local emergency services.

RESOURCES FOR THE COMMUNITY

• The County of LA has activated a resource page for Hurricane Hilary. Please visit this page to stay updated.
• Monitor weather conditions on the National Weather Service website or local news outlets.
• Alert LA County is the opt-in mass notification program utilized by the County of Los Angeles that allows individuals to receive emergency alerts by text, email and/or phone call. Register for Alert LA County opt-in for these emergency alerts.
• The LA County Department of Public Works has a list of locations where you can find sand bags.
• ReadyLACounty has tips on how to prepare for rain and flooding and other resources and safety tips.
• The National Weather Service has safety tips for hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and more.
• Call 211 to find a shelter location.

RESOURCES FOR SCHOOLS

• The California Department of Education has a variety of information and resources to help districts and schools prepare for flooding.
• Ready.gov for kids has some kid-friendly tips to help prepare for floods and other natural disasters. 
• A Kid-Friendly Guide To Handling A Weather Emergency While At School - Weather.com

TIPS FOR STAYING SAFE DURING A FLOOD

• Stay informed by listening to radio or television.
  • Ensure you have batteries or power back-up for your electronic devices 
• Get to higher ground immediately.
• Obey evacuation orders. Listen to the authorities if you are told to leave.
• Avoid flood waters. Do not walk or drive through flood waters as they may be deeper than they appear.
• Flash flooding is possible across the region, with rare and dangerous flooding possible across the mountains and deserts.
• During the storm, avoid driving unless it is necessary. If you must drive, do not drive through standing water. Turn around, don’t drown. Don’t drive around barriers and avoid crossing running water in your car or on foot.
• If you see a downed powerline, always assume it is energized, stay away, and do not touch it or any other electrical equipment nearby. Call 911.
• If you smell gas or suspect a gas leak, leave the area. From a safe location, call 911.
• Create a go-kit in case your family needs to evacuate. Consider water for each person in your family, food, a first aid kit, important documents, prescription medications, a radio, and a flashlight.