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County of Sonoma 5th District Emergency Update

July 1, 2024

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Key Updates

A Red Flag Warning has been issued by the National Weather Service for portions of Sonoma County, and is currently in effect between Monday, July 1 at 11:00 PM until Wednesday July 3, at 5:00 PM

A combination of gusty offshore winds and low relative humidity is expected for the higher elevations.


A Red Flag Warning means that dry and windy conditions will exist, leading to critical fire weather conditions. Do not burn outdoors or use fireworks as weather conditions will be conductive for rapid fire response, exercise fire safety precautions to prevent fires and have an emergency plan in place.


The following are strongly discouraged when a Red Flag Warning has been issued: 


  • Never mow or trim dry grass during a red flag warning because a power tool could spark on a rock and start a grass fire. It is not recommended even on windy, dry, hot days. 
  • No wood or charcoal camp fires in forests during periods of high fire danger.
  • Don’t pull your vehicle over in grass as it can spark a grass fire. If necessary, pull over on paved roads.


Emergency preparedness tips include:


  • Secure loose outdoor items and structures: Prevent potential hazards by securing your outdoor belongings in high winds.
  • Remain vigilant of your surroundings and check on your neighbors: Stay alert to changing conditions and lend a helping hand to those around you.
  • Keep your phones charged and vehicle gas tanks full: Be prepared for emergencies with fully charged devices and a full tank of gas.
  • Stay informed! Sign up for emergency alerts at https://socoemergency.org/get-ready/sign-up to receive crucial information in real-time.
  • Know your evacuation zone. https://socoemergency.org/get-ready/evacuation-map-map/ to find out which zone you’re in and be ready to take action if necessary.


Learn more at https://socoemergency.org/emergency/red-flag-warning/

County of Sonoma Health Officer Dr. Tanya Phares has issued a Heat Advisory in response to the National Weather Service’s Excessive Heat Warning for much of the county from Tuesday morning, July 2 through Friday evening, July 5

The heat alert applies to inland areas of Sonoma County, where high temperatures are forecast to be in the mid-high 90s and low 100s, depending on location. Santa Rosa is forecast to reach 97 degrees.

https://socoemergency.org/emergency/extreme-heat/


Extreme heat generally results in the highest death rate among weather-related hazards. In most of the United States, extreme heat is defined as an extended period (2-3 days) of intense heat and humidity with temperatures above 90 degrees. In extremely hot conditions, evaporation slows down and the body has to work harder to maintain a normal temperature. This can lead to death for pushing the human body beyond its limits. Remember that older adults, children, and people who are sick or overweight are at greatest risk from extreme heat.


·        Go to an air-conditioned room, if possible.

·        Avoid strenuous activities.

·        Be on the lookout for heat illness.

·        Wear light clothing.

·        Check how your relatives and neighbors are.

·        Drink a lot of water.

·        Be on the lookout for heat cramps, exhaustion, and heat stroke.

·        Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles.


Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath or moving to an air-conditioned place is a much better way to cool off. Air conditioning is the strongest protective factor against heat-related illness. Exposure to air conditioning for even a few hours a day will reduce the risk for heat-related illness. Consider visiting a cooling center, shopping mall or public library for a few hours.


An excessive heat warning is now in effect through 8 PM July 6

Cooling Centers open Tuesday and Wednesday

Cooling Centers will be open Tuesday and Wednesday throughout the county, including the following locations in the 5th District:


Finley Community Center

11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

2060 W. College Ave., Santa Rosa


Sebastopol Community Cultural Center Teen Annex

Noon to 6 p.m.

425 Morris Street, Sebastopol


Russian River Senior Center

11 a.m. to 8 p.m.

15010 Armstrong Woods Road. Guerneville



Additionally, Sonoma County Library Branches are great places to cool off as well. Find the hours here.

A Coastal Flood Advisory is in effect from

3 PM July 1 until 11 PM July 3

Flooding of lots, parks, and roads with only isolated road closures is expected along the coastline are anticipated. See National Weather Service for more details.

Read the latest from the National Weather Service here.

Water Safety

If you go to river or coast beaches, anticipate larger than usual crowds and be sure to follow these water safety tips from Sonoma County Tourism.

Stay Informed: Sign up for Emergency Alerts

Logo of the County of Sonoma Emergency Management with connect empower prepare and protect as the message
Watch Duty Logo

Sonoma County has experienced a number of disasters over the past several years including floods, earthquakes, power shutoffs, a pandemic and wildfires. The County’s alert and warning systems have grown to notify residents of an emergency in their area early and accurately. Many alerts require individuals opt-in, the link below provides sign-up and information on additional warning systems. 


https://socoemergency.org/get-ready/sign-up/ 



Download the free Watch Duty App. It provides real-time updates on active wildfires, evacuation zones, power outages and air quality. 

Potential PG&E Outages

  • Sign up for Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) alerts and view power outage reports here.
  • Learn about accessibility assistance and resources from PG&E during a PSPS here.
  • Call 211 for local support before, during and after an emergency, such as a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS). Those using relay services can call 1-800-402-4018. You can also text “PSPS” to 211-211.

DIY tip for staying cool

Another option for staying cool if you do not have access to air conditioning is to make your own DIY evaporative cooler. These are also often called "swamp coolers" and they cool the air using the natural process of evaporation. As a fan blows air over wet material, the water evaporates, drawing heat from the air and producing a cooling effect. There are a number of online tutorials to demonstrate how to make one using common materials.

Fifth District Supervisor Lynda Hopkins | County of Sonoma | 707-565-2241

Lynda.Hopkins@sonoma-county.org


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