Golden State Today

California is bracing for a significant winter storm expected to hit later this week. Governor Gavin Newsom has initiated a comprehensive response to protect communities, especially those affected by recent wildfires like the ones in Los Angeles.

Governor Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom visited Altadena to inspect preparations at the Eaton Fire burn scar area. The state has implemented measures to prevent debris from entering water bodies, including installing emergency protection materials and deploying concrete barriers known as K-rails.

The state has been preparing for extreme weather conditions for weeks. Crews have worked on securing areas against potential mudslides and debris flows. "If you’re in the storm’s path, please remain vigilant and follow all guidance of local authorities," advised Governor Newsom.

According to the National Weather Service, the storm will impact California broadly, with risks of urban flooding, high winds, heavy snow, and specific threats to burn scar areas in Southern California.

To mitigate these risks, California has taken several actions:

- The Department of Water Resources (DWR) has distributed 319,000 sandbags and 5,600 super sacks across Southern California.

- CAL FIRE has deployed 242 engines statewide for rapid response.

- Cal OES prepositioned resources in eight counties with over 400 personnel ready to respond.

- Nearly 120 miles of emergency protection materials have been installed by the California Conservation Corps.

- Caltrans is placing erosion-control devices along vulnerable roadways.

- Geologists are studying burn scars using aerial LiDAR data to predict debris flow paths.

- The California National Guard is assisting with debris removal efforts.

- Social services are coordinating shelters and warming centers for impacted communities.

These proactive steps build on previous efforts to safeguard communities and manage water resources. An executive order signed by Governor Newsom aims to maximize water storage from winter storms.

Residents are urged to stay informed about potential risks during storms and adhere to local emergency instructions. Those in burn scar areas should be prepared for sudden debris flows with evacuation plans ready.

For more information on preparedness measures, residents can visit ready.ca.gov.