Major Storm Forecast Information | Información del pronóstico de tormenta mayor

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All SBPL locations will be closed on Monday, February 16 for Presidents' Day.

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Presidents' Day Holiday Observed Feb. 16 | Día de los Presidentes observado el 16 de feb.

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Major February Storm Forecasted: Parking, Sandbags & Preparedness Updates

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Stay Informed. Be Ready.

The City of Santa Barbara is taking proactive measures to ensure public safety and minimize potential impacts from the Santa Barbara County Major February Storm, including activating Self-Serve Sandbag Stations and FREE Emergency Storm Parking. There is no evacuation in effect at this time

The National Weather Service has predicted that a strong winter storm will impact the area starting Sunday, February 15, with the most significant conditions on Monday, bringing heavy rain, damaging winds, high surf, and a heightened risk of flooding. A Flood Watch has been issued for Monday from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.  Thunderstorms are possible Monday and could produce brief intense downpours, strong wind gusts, small hail, isolated waterspouts, or a brief weak tornado. Additional periods of rain, mountain snow, and coastal flooding concerns may continue into midweek.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed, take necessary precautions, and report any concerns.

Public safety officials are monitoring the incoming storm and will continue to assess if protective actions, such as an evacuation warning, evacuation order, or shelter in place, are necessary. 

FREE Emergency Storm Parking ACTIVATED

Residents must register for storm parking through this portal during the specified storm registry period. Unregistered vehicles will be charged at the standard hourly parking rate. Registered license plate must match the vehicle to receive validation.   

Activation Registration Window:

  • Open: NOW
  • Closes: February 17, 9:00 p.m.

Complimentary Parking Window:

  • Opens: February 15, 12:00 p.m.
  • Closes: February 17, 9:00 p.m.

Parking Location: City Lot 2 - Roof (914 Chapala Street)

For more information and to register online, visit Emergency Storm Parking (SantaBarbaraCA.gov/StormParking).

Self-Serve Sandbag Stations will OPEN

Sunday, February 15, 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Sandbags are available to residents free of charge. Residents are reminded that the City Sandbag Distribution Policy is designed to assist in the protection of private property only during storm emergency conditions. Please note the following:

  • Bring your own gloves and shovels and be prepared to fill the bags you need.
  • Fill your sandbags halfway so they are not too heavy to lift and can be stacked properly.
  • You may take 20 sandbags per trip.
  • To learn how to fill and stack sandbags, watch the video.

For more sandbag information, visit Sandbag Information (SantaBarbaraCA.gov/Sandbags).

Report Issues:

For any emergency, dial 9-1-1.
Non-Emergency Line 
(805) 882-8900.

To report a fallen tree or limb, or other street tree concern:
Call: (805) 564-5433
Email: Trees@SantaBarbaraCA.gov
After-hours contact: (805) 564-5413

Clogged or Blocked Storm Drains? Street-Related Emergencies?
Streets Operations & Infrastructure responds to emergency and non-emergency issues related to storm drain maintenance.
Call: (805) 564-5454
Email: Streets@SantaBarbaraCA.gov

Precautions and tips to stay safe:
  • Stay away from rivers, creeks, streams, recent wildfire burn areas, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Those living in areas prone to flooding and recent burn areas should stay aware of changing conditions and be prepared to take protective actions, such as going to the innermost room of your home or to higher ground such as a second floor.
  • In the event of a Flash Flood Warning, move to high ground immediately.
  • In the event of a Tornado Warning, quickly move to an innermost room on the bottom floor and stay away from windows.
  • Beaches, bluffs and the Harbor area may be impacted. This storm may trigger erosion along the bluffs throughout the county. Residents and visitors are advised to stay away from beach areas.
  • Strong winds can cause power outages. Charge important electronic devices and be prepared in case an unexpected power outage occurs.
  • Secure belongings that could get impacted by strong winds such as umbrellas, sports equipment, and outdoor furniture.
  • Take care of those who might not be aware of the weather hazard or be able to react accordingly – especially the elderly, young children, and pets.
  • If you hear thunder, go indoors. Wait 30 minutes after the storm has passed before resuming outdoor activities.
Storm Resources:

ReadySBC Storm Information: Santa Barbara County Major Storm Information