County of San Luis Obispo seal Dawn Ortiz Legg 3rd District Supervisor County of San Luis Obsipo

Greetings,

 

This is a short newsletter regarding weather and emergency preparedness.

This Newsletter at a Glance

  • John Lindsey and OES Virtual El Nino Event
  • Creek Ready SLO
  • Sandbag and pick-up locations
  • Cal Trans Traffic Advisory Information
  • Out in the Community - Upcoming Fundraisers and Events
  • Mark Your Calendars - Important Dates and Meetings

Weathering the Storm:
El Nino Preparedness & Updates

Join Us for a Virtual El Nino Community Meeting – November 4

As we prepare for the possibility of significant winter storms associated with El Niño, staying informed and taking steps now to prepare can make a meaningful difference.

The San Luis Obispo County Office of Emergency Services (OES) is hosting a virtual community meeting on Wednesday, November 4, at 6:00 PM to help residents better understand what El Niño could mean for our region and how to prepare for potential flooding, heavy rainfall, and other storm-related impacts.

 

Local meteorologist John Lindsey will share insights into El Niño and potential weather patterns, while representatives from County OES, Public Works, the Sheriff's Office, and County Fire will discuss how their departments are preparing to protect our communities and respond to emergencies.

 

Have questions? Residents are encouraged to submit questions in advance to oes@co.slo.ca.us or call (805) 781-5678. Your questions will help guide the discussion and ensure the meeting addresses the concerns most important to our community.

 

Meeting Details:
Wednesday, November 4 | 6:00 PM
Watch Live: San Luis Obispo County YouTube Channel

 

For additional storm preparedness information and resources, visit ReadySLO.org/elnino.

 

Preparing today can help protect our families, homes, and neighborhoods when severe weather arrives.

 

Creek Ready SLO: Helping Property Owners Prepare for Winter Storms

Preparing our local creeks and waterways is an important part of reducing flood risks. For property owners living along creeks, navigating maintenance needs and environmental permitting requirements can be challenging.

 

To help, San Luis Obispo County has partnered with Creek Lands Conservation and local Resource Conservation Districts to launch Creek Ready SLO, a free technical assistance program for creekside property owners in unincorporated areas of the County.

 

Through the program, qualified staff can visit properties to evaluate creek and drainage conditions, identify potential maintenance needs, and help property owners understand state and local permitting requirements for work in and around waterways.

Interested in scheduling a consultation or property visit?

Taking proactive steps now can help property owners better understand their options and prepare for the rainy season. For additional storm preparedness resources, visit ReadySLO.org.

 

Sand and Sandbag Resources

For residents looking to protect their properties from flooding, free sand is available at designated locations throughout San Luis Obispo County. Check the County's sand distribution list for the most up-to-date locations and availability information.

 

Several South County locations include:

  • Avila Beach: Main parking lot off 1st Street

  • Pismo Beach: 550 Frady Lane

  • Grover Beach: 14th Street and Mentone Avenue

Sand is available on a first-come, first-served basis and is replenished as needed, although supplies may occasionally run low. Remember to bring your own shovel and empty sandbags, as these are not provided at most locations.

 

Empty sandbags can be purchased at many local hardware stores. For an updated list of sand distribution sites, participating retailers, and additional storm preparation resources, visit ReadySLO.org – Sandbag Information.

 

Taking a few simple steps today can help protect your property when the rain arrives!

 

Caltrans and Roadway Conditions Information

Knowing where to find reliable information about road conditions can make a big difference when traveling during inclement weather. Heavy rainfall, flooding, fallen trees, and debris can create unexpected travel hazards, particularly along our highways and rural roads.

 

Caltrans offers several free tools to help residents stay informed and plan ahead:

  • Caltrans QuickMap: Your go-to resource for real-time highway conditions, traffic incidents, closures, and restrictions. The free QuickMap app is also available for Apple and Android devices.

  • Caltrans Planned Lane Closures: View scheduled highway lane closures up to seven days in advance. Keep in mind that emergency closures caused by storms or other unexpected events may not appear here.

  • Caltrans Traffic Cameras: Check highway camera images to get a look at current conditions before heading out.

  • Caltrans District 5: Find regional transportation updates and information about state highway projects throughout the Central Coast.

These resources cover state highways, including Highways 101, 1, 41, and 46. For local roads maintained by San Luis Obispo County, visit the County Public Works website for information and updates.

 

Remember, conditions can change quickly during severe weather. Check road conditions before traveling, allow extra time, and never attempt to drive through flooded roadways.

 

Out in the Community

I am looking forward to the following upcoming community events and fundraisers.

 

Mark Your Calendars

The following is a list of important dates and community meetings or board meetings the Supervisor may be attending. Links are provided for more information.

 

October 19th - November 6th - Ontario Rd Bob Jones Trail Parking is CLOSED. Please do not park on Ontario, alternative parking is available at the park and ride lot on Avila Beach Dr.

November 3rd - BOS Meeting 9am, Katcho Achadjian Government Center Board Chambers

November 4th - SLOCOG/RTA - 9am, Katcho Achadjian Government Center Board Chambers 

November 5th - Avila Beach Office Hours 1:30-3:30 at the Avila Community Center

November 9th - Avila Valley Advisory Council 6pm via zoom

November 14th - Commission on Status of Women and Girls 10am, ACI Jet

November 18th - APCD Board of Directors 9am, Katcho Achadjian Government Center Board Chambers

November 18th - 3CE Executive Committee Policy Board Meeting 11:30, Katcho Achadjian Government Center, 4th Floor BOS Conference Room

November 18th - LAFCO 9am-12, Katcho Achadjian Government Center Board Chambers

November 19th - Visit SLOCAL Advisory Committee, 3:30-6pm, Visit SLOCAL Offices

Reach out to my office —

1055 Monterey Street, Suite D430

San Luis Obispo, CA 93408

(805) 781-4336

dortizlegg@co.slo.ca.us

District 3 Website

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