Updates
Thursday, Jan. 28
Atascadero Fire and Emergency Services reported that over the last 36 hours since the storm began, they have responded to over 65 calls for service.
According to the Emergency Team, the strong winds have brought down trees and power lines, all while the continuous rainfall has caused multiple floods in certain areas.
Emergency Responders remind the community that while the rain continues to fall, they ask residents to continue to be safe and recognize the many hazards this weather brings. If you must be on the road during this time, please drive with caution.
National Weather Rainfall Totals for California here.
Current Road Closures are listed Here
CHP warns that heavy rain and strong winds are causing dangerous road conditions, power lines and fallen trees and other incidents affecting roadways. Drive with caution.
Paso Robles, N. River Road from Wellsona Road to Estrella Road is also closed due to flooding
As of 6:50 a.m. it is reported that Atascadero is measuring 2.8” of rain
ALERT: A flash flood warning is still in place this morning as heavy rains continue to increase over the Central Coast.
Use caution when driving local roads; even Highways 1, 46, and 101 could become flooded as rain rates could exceed 1” per hour. Drive with Caution.
Driving in Flood Conditions
The following are important points to remember when driving in flood conditions:
- Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control and possible stalling.
- A foot of water will float many vehicles.
- Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles, including sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and pick-ups.
Floods
A flood occurs when water covers land that is normally dry. Flooding is very dangerous and can cause injury or death. During a flood, you must evacuate the area. Do not walk, swim or drive through floodwaters. Six inches of moving water can knock you down. One foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
During the Flood
- Evacuate immediately if told to do so.
- Listen to Public Alert and Notification systems and media for emergency information.
- Do not walk, swim or drive through floodwaters.
- Avoid downed power lines.
- Do not drive around barricades. Roads and bridges may have washed out.
Wednesday, Jan. 27
According to the City, officials are mainly reporting downed limbs, cable and/or phone lines, which are being taken care of pretty quickly.
As of 10 a.m. it is reported that Atascadero is measuring 1.5” of rain
CHP reported at 6 a.m. that the Grapevine is closed, traffic is being routed to California State Route 46 to US 101 after reporting moderate snow with strong gusty winds as of 4:45 a.m.
SLO County Fire reported tree down on Parkhill Road in Santa Margarita, drive with caution.
As of 8 a.m. it is reported that Atascadero is measuring 0.9” of rain
Reports of multiple tress falling, officials recommend that if the tree is not hazardous leave until the storm has passed. Do not try and clean up the debris. If the tree is on the road or dangerous contact emergency services.
As of 7:15 a.m. North County is measuring 0.6” of rain. The season total is 2.08”.
At around 4:30 a.m. this morning, most North County PG&E customers were without power for some time as high winds whip through the area, and steady rain continues to fall.
As of 5 a.m., this morning reports of wind speeds were just near 60 mph in San Luis Obispo County. These winds could peak closer to 70 mph throughout the day.
Reports of California Highway Patrol (CHP) responding to an accident northbound Highway 101 in the Santa Margarita area and a tree was down at Walnut Avenue and Poplar Street in Atascadero.
Flooding was reported at Highway 58 and Parkhill Road in Santa Margarita.
Weather Alerts
A high-wind warning remains in effect until 10 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 28. South winds 25 to 40 mph with gusts to 65 mph expected. Strongest in the hills and peaks.
Damaging winds are expected to blow down large objects such as trees and power lines. Power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. This includes Highways 1 and 101.
National Weather Service Advisory warns that people should avoid being outside in forested areas and around trees and branches. If possible, remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Use caution if you must drive.
South winds expected 30 to 40 kt with gusts to 50 kt, and combined seas of 14 to 18 feet are expected when conditions are worst. Very strong winds will create exceptionally dangerous sea conditions, which could capsize or damage vessels of all sizes.
Flash Flood Watch for San Luis Obispo County Central Coast and nearby foothills. From Tuesday night through Thursday evening. Heavy rainfall rates near 2 inches in 3 hours can result in dangerous flash flooding to roads and creeks. This watch includes but is not limited to the Avila Burn scar. Significant mud and debris flows are possible and could affect vulnerable roads and structures, including highway 101.
Flash flooding and debris flows will be a particular threat in and below the recently burned areas. A flash flood watch means that conditions may develop that lead to flash flooding. Flash flooding is a very dangerous situation. Persons in watch areas should remain alert and follow the directions of emergency preparedness officials. Avoid hiking and camping in canyons and near creeks over the next few days.
Resources
What to do if your power goes out
During an outage, it is recommended to unplug or turn off all appliances to help avoid overloading circuits when the power is restored. You may want to leave on a single lamp to alert you when the power returns. When the power is restored, you can begin to turn your appliances on, one at a time.
Where there is flooding
Stay away from flooded areas and downed trees during and after a storm. These areas could be hiding an energized power line.
Watch out for downed power lines
If you see a downed power line, assume it is energized and stay away. Call 9-1-1 immediately to report its location, and then call PG&E at (800)743-5002.
Reporting outages
Before calling PG&E about a power outage:
- Determine if power is out only in your building or if the entire neighborhood is out.
- Check to see whether neighbors are affected.
- If only your residence is without power, check circuit breakers and fuse boxes to see if the problem is limited to the home electric system.
To report an outage, call (800)743-5002. Phone lines may become very busy during major storms.
Visit the outage map for a status report on your outage, and an anticipated time your power will be turned back on.
Be Prepared
During a major long-duration winter storm with several inches of rain. It is essential to remain calm, stay safe, and prepared:
- Keep a battery-powered radio and flashlight in an accessible location. Make sure you have extra batteries.
- Prepare your home and your property; clean out gutters, maintain trees, and inspect and/or repair your roof.
- Get sandbags ready if your area is prone to flooding.
- Be alert to changing weather conditions by following local news sources, the National Weather Service, and utilizing a weather radio.
- Stay indoors and avoid driving as much as possible. If driving is necessary, take emergency supplies with you and drive with extra caution.
- Do not drive or walk through fast-moving water or flooded areas.
- Bring pets inside.
- Never use generators, outdoor cooking equipment, or gasoline or propane heaters indoors.
- Keep an eye out for storm damage that may cause harm, such as broken tree limbs, damaged power lines, etc.
Atascadero Emergency Services | Phone (805)470-3300 or 9-1-1
Templeton Emergency Services | Phone (805)434-4911 or 9-1-1
Paso Robles Emergency Services | Phone (805)227-7560 or 9-1-1
