Storm Preparedness

The City of Yorba Linda works behind the scenes preparing for the winter storm season, including removing debris from storm drains and strengthening road and park infrastructure before the annual winter rains hit. Internally, every year, City staff reviews emergency procedures and coordinates between departments to prepare for a series of possible significant weather events. Yorba Linda residents and businesses are also urged to prepare for storms using the tips and resources below.

Storm Safety Tips & Resources

Sandbags

Sandbags help to divert or redirect water, mud, and debris from your property and help prevent soil erosion. Free unfilled sandbags and sand are available for pick-up at Fire Station 53.  Residents are encouraged to bring their own shovels, and crews may or may not be present to assist in filling sandbags. Supply may be limited based on demand and availability.  In addition, Fire Station 10 and Fire Station 32 have empty sandbags available.  For more information, please contact OCFA at 714-573-6200. Residents can also purchase fill materials at local home centers and building supply stores.

Vehicle Safety

  • Make sure your wiper blades, tires, and brakes are in good shape;
  • Travel with a full tank of gas;
  • Slow down when driving in adverse weather;
  • Leave a few car lengths between you and the vehicle in front of you;
  • Use extreme caution on roadways and stay clear of downed power lines;
  • Turn on your lights; the law states that lights must be on when windshield wipers are on;
  • Stay in the center lane, as puddles typically form on the shoulder and median; 
  • Avoid sudden acceleration and braking; and
  • "Turn Around, Don't Drown." Never drive through a flooded street or intersection. If you come across a flooded intersection or street, turn around or find an alternate route. Don't attempt to cross swift-moving water; as little as two feet of rushing water can sweep a large vehicle away.

Home & Yard Preparedness

  • Check and trim trees that may have weak limbs that could fall in a storm;
  • Make sure your rain gutters are cleared. Fix any roof leaks;
  • If you have water-wise plantings or a lot of dirt or loose ground cover in your front yard, make sure there are borders around the edges to prevent muddy runoff, which is harmful to the ocean and environment;
  • Secure patio furniture and items in yards before a storm;
  • If outside, stay away from trees, signs, power lines, and other objects that could fall and injure you;
  • Aerate lawns periodically. This opens up the soil, improves the health of your lawn, and allows water to be absorbed better; 
  • Verify water levels in your pools and/or spa; and
  • Check your landscaping for low spots where water could build up.

Power Outage Tips

  • Traffic signals that are out should be treated as four-way stops;
  • Leave the doors of your refrigerator and freezer closed to keep your food as fresh as possible. An unopened refrigerator can keep foods cold enough for a couple of hours. A half-full freezer will stay cold for up to 24 hours and a full freezer for 48 hours. If you must eat food that was refrigerated or frozen, check it carefully for signs of spoilage;
  • Use flashlights for lighting during a power outage; do not use candles because they pose a significant fire hazard. Make sure you are prepared with backup batteries; and
  • Do not use equipment indoors that is designed for outdoor cooking. Such equipment can emit carbon monoxide and other toxic gases.

Reporting Downed Power Lines and Trees

If you see a downed power line, stay away and call 911. To report a fallen or damaged tree during the City's normal business hours, please contact the Public Work Department at 714-961-7170. To report a fallen or damaged tree over the weekend, please contact Yorba Linda Police Service Non-Emergency/Dispatch Number at 714-647-7000.

Weather Information & Forecasts

Visit the National Weather Service website for current and forecast weather conditions. 

Get Notifications

Sign up for the City's Notify Me and the County's notification system AlertOC to receive notifications when residents and businesses within the City of Yorba Linda are impacted by, or in danger of being impacted by, an emergency or disaster.