Jan 08, 2023 at 12:50 AM

MONTECITO, CA.– A Weather Advisory is in effect for Montecito and the Thomas Fire burn area of Santa Barbara County due to a strong approaching storm system. Heavy rain is expected countywide Monday, January 9 through Tuesday, January 10, 2023.

During a Weather Advisory, community members are urged to:

• Monitor the weather
• Plan how to get out and where you might go
• Prepare and protect your home

According to the National Weather Service, the heaviest rainfall is expected in south Santa Barbara County including the Alisal, Cave, and Thomas Fire areas. Damaging winds could blow down large objects such as trees and outdoor furniture. Unplanned power outages are possible. Beaches and bluffs may be impacted by dangerous surf, winds and flooding. 

Current forecasts indicate this storm may cause significant flooding countywide. Residents should remain vigilant as conditions can change quickly. 

Please review the Santa Barbara County 2023 January Winter Storm Incident Map to see at-risk areas. 

Before the Rain:

• If you are concerned that this storm may cause unsafe conditions to your home, leave the area before rain starts.  Do not wait for an official evacuation notification to leave.
• Sandbags and information about protecting your home from flooding can be found at: https://www.readysbc.org/576/Storm-Readiness

During Rain:

• If you feel unsafe during the rainfall, shelter in place in your home by gathering your family and pets in the inner most room of your house, preferably on the top floor if you live in a multi-story home. 
• Do not attempt to drive at night or while it is raining, as roads may be damaged or your car may be swept away by moving water or debris. 

After the Rain:

• Following a storm, roads may be impacted and immediate access in or out of the area cannot be guaranteed.
• Crews will clear roads of mud and rock slides when it is safe to do so.
• Residents must be prepared to stay in or away from their home for multiple days during and after rain events.

Public safety officials are keeping a close eye on the incoming storm and working with the National Weather Service.  Officials will continue to work together to further assess if protective actions, such as an evacuation warning, evacuation order, or shelter in place are necessary.

Sand and sandbags are available to residents at Lower Manning Park, located at 449 San Ysidro Road. 

REGISTER TO RECEIVE ReadySBC ALERTS: If you haven’t registered for emergency alerts, please do so at ReadySBC.org. Click on the red icon to register to receive emergency alerts via text, phone call, and email.