With significant rain storms in the forecast, the City is urging residents to be prepared

A strong storm system is expected to move through Southern California this weekend, bringing heavy rainfall in the region through Saturday, according to the National Weather Service. Localized flooding is possible in low-lying areas of Orange County. 

The San Bernardino Mountains will likely receive from 2 to 4 inches of snow, with severe winds in the desert areas and mountain passes.  Predicted wind gusts in the high desert could reach 50 to 60 mph, with the mountain passes and desert slopes potentially experiencing peak gusts from 70 to 80 mph.  If you're heading to those areas, proceed with caution or avoid them altogether, advises the National Weather Service. 

Locally, prepare your home and help prevent runoff by clearing debris from gutters, downspouts and low areas in yards or patios that could cause water back-ups. Prevent runoff pollution into streets and storm drains by collecting any trash or landscape clippings from your property and check your drains to make sure they're not clogged. If so, clean them and properly dispose of the debris.  Also, check the catch basin at the end of your street. If it's clogged, call Public Services at 949-470-3095.

To help you prepare, the City offers free sandbags around the clock on a first-come, first-served basis. Bags are pre-filled and are limited to 10 bags per resident. Sandbags are available at the following locations:

Alicia Park, 23650 Via Linda
Animal Services Center, 28095 Hillcrest
Mission Viejo Civic Center, 200 Civic Center
Florence Joyner Olympiad Park, 22760 Olympiad Road
Gilleran Park, 24960 Felipe Road
Norman P. Murray Community and Senior Center, 24932 Veterans Way
Youth Athletic Park, 22056 Olympiad Road