Stormy Days Ahead: How to Stay Safe and Ready

Southern California is bracing for a big storm, and it's not just about rain. The main concern is mudslides and flash floods, especially in areas that recently had fires. People are getting ready, but not everyone is taking it seriously. Some folks in Altadena, a place hit hard by fires earlier this year, are packing up and leaving. They've seen what can happen when heavy rain hits burned areas. Others, like Austin Solliday, are staying put, hoping their makeshift homes can handle the storm. He's got a trailer and a tent where his house used to be, and he's planning to ride out the storm there. The storm is expected to be at its worst on Saturday, from early morning to evening. But it's hard to predict exactly when and where the heaviest rain will hit. That's because this storm is spinning like a top, which means it could stick around longer than usual. While most people won't see dangerous flooding, there's a chance some areas could get hit hard. That's why experts say it's better to be overprepared than underprepared. They're advising people to have an emergency kit ready, with things like food, water, and a first-aid kit. They also suggest making a plan for your family, including where you'll go if you need to evacuate. But not everyone is taking these warnings seriously. Some people in Altadena seem apathetic, maybe because they're still dealing with the aftermath of the fires. Others are taking steps to protect their homes, like putting up sandbags and barriers. Meanwhile, the rain is already falling in some parts of the region. It's not heavy yet, but it's expected to pick up on Saturday. That's when the real risk of mudslides and flash floods will be highest. So, what can you do to stay safe? First, know your flood risk. You can check online to see if your home is in a flood zone. Then, make a plan. Know where you'll go if you need to evacuate, and have a go-bag ready with important documents, medication, and other essentials. And if you're driving, be extra careful. Don't enter flooded streets, even if it doesn't look that deep. It only takes a few inches of water to cause problems. Also, turn on your headlights if your windshield wipers are on, and drive slowly. In short, the storm is coming, and it's important to be ready. Don't wait until it's too late to prepare.