Extreme Weather Preparedness in Santa Monica

Santa Monica may experience extreme weather events like heat waves, heavy rains and flooding, thunderstorms and lightning, and damaging windstorms. Human-caused climate change is associated with widespread changes in weather patterns, with extreme weather events becoming more frequent or more intense. Find more information about Santa Monica's most frequent weather events below.

Extreme Heat Events

Heat-related injuries can be serious and are linked to the highest number of disaster deaths nationwide. Excessive heat condition impacts are largely preventable. Protect yourself and others by staying cool, staying hydrated and monitoring your health. Check in on loved ones and neighbors who may not have access to air conditioning. Here are some tips to the beat the heat in Santa Monica.

If extreme heat and cold events meet predefined thresholds for an extended period of time, Santa Monica and the County of Los Angeles may jointly coordinate to set-up augmented cooling and warming centers at various locations. Cooling and warming center information can be found via the Ready LA County-Adverse Weather page or by call 2-1-1.

Thunderstorm and Wind Events

Heavy, prolonged rainfall and thunderstorms along the California coast can result in coastal and large-scale urban flooding. Monitor weather reports via www.weather.gov and take action if an active weather alert is issued for Santa Monica. If major rain events are in the forecast, stay home as much as possible. Never drive through standing water or areas closed by public officials.

Thunderstorms and other weather events, like windstorms, can have additional impacts such as power outages and downed trees and power lines. Avoid downed power lines and anything that may be touching them - especially water. If power outages are detected, please contact SoCal Edison for outage updates via SCE.com/outage. Stay updated on local weather impacts by signing up for SMAlerts notifications.

Learn more about preparing for other Santa Monica hazards here.

FAQ

What are the different types of severe weather alerts and what do they mean?

The National Weather Service provides weather, water and climate forecasts, warnings and impact-based decision support to protect life and property in the United States. The National Weather Service's weather forecasts and warnings provide guidance to the public on what actions to take during inclement weather events. Know the different levels of weather alerts.

Outlook: Be aware. A weather event is likely in the next 3-7 days. Those needing additional time to prepare for impacts should begin to take action and closely monitor weather updates.
Watch: Be prepared! Hazardous weather is possible but its occurrence, location or timing is uncertain. The public should monitor news and www.weather.gov for possible warnings and have a plan in case conditions worsen.
Advisory: Hazardous weather event is occurring, imminent or likely but impacts are likely to be minor or a nuisance.
Warning: Take action! Hazardous weather event is occurring, imminent or likely. Weather conditions post a threat to life or property. People living in the area of impact need to take protective actions immediately.

For more information on specific weather alerts and warnings, visit www.weather.gov/safety/

What type of heat related injuries can occur?

Sunburn is usually a first-degree burn that involves just the outer surface of the skin. Symptoms include redness and pain. Severe cases may cause swelling, blisters, fever of 102 degrees or above and headaches.

Heat exhaustion is the inability to sweat enough to cool you. Symptoms include fatigue, weakness, dizziness, nausea or vomiting as well as cold, clammy, pale, red or flushed skin. A marked body temperature rise will not occur.
Heatstroke is a life threatening condition. It occurs when the body stops sweating but the body temperature continues to rise. Symptoms include visual disturbances, headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion and, as the condition progresses, delirium or unconsciousness. The skin will be hot, dry, and red or flushed even under the armpits. This condition is a severe medical emergency and required emergency medical attention.

For first aid and additional tips for extreme heat, visit the Centers for Disease and Prevention (CDC)'s Heat Tips website.

How can I protect myself from heat related injuries?

Protect yourself and others by following these steps:

On hot days avoid the sun from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. when the burning rays are strongest.
Never leave children, seniors or pets alone in a vehicle on a hot day.
Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 if you need to go out in the sun. Remember to apply sunscreen liberally to the children in your care.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat and light colored, lightweight, loose-fitting clothes when you’re outdoors. This type of clothing reflects heat and sunlight, which helps you maintain a normal body temperature.
Reduce physical activity.
Drink plenty of fluids, even if you aren’t thirsty. Make sure to stay hydrated when you are exercising or working in hot weather.
Do not drink alcohol or caffeine since they contribute to water loss.

What are Cooling and Warming Centers? When are they activated?

Cooling and Warming Centers are free public places to go to seek relief from weather conditions, either a warm and dry environment or an air-conditioned environment. Cooling and Warming Centers are only activated during specific events when prolonged weather conditions are dangerous to the general public's health. The Santa Monica Office of Emergency Management in conjunction with the County of Los Angeles will determine if local weather conditions warrant a Cooling/Warming Center is needed in Santa Monica and will ensure they are spread out throughout the County.

Most centers are located in public facilities such as libraries and community rooms. Generally, cooling and warming center hours will align with the normal operating hours of the facility. However, during prolonged periods of excessive cold or heat events centers may offer extended hours and/or additional centers will be made available. Details can be found on Ready LA County - Adverse Weather page or by calling 2-1-1 or by calling Santa Monica 3-1-1.

Cooling/Warming Centers are free and will have access to tables, chairs, and water; however, you are encouraged to bring your own chargers, devices, books, and small items to pass the time. Please keep personal items to a minimum. Pets are not allowed in all City facilities; therefore, if you have pets and would like to bring them to the center, please check with the facility to determine if small pets will be accepted.

Are there areas in Santa Monica that are typically at risk for flooding?

While coastal flooding and flooding near streams or rivers is most common, flooding can happen anywhere. FEMA's Flood Map Center is a good resource to identify if your neighborhood or areas you visit have a higher risk of flooding.

During an event that causes flooding, do not drive or walk through flood waters. Even six inches of moving water can knock down a pedestrian and one foot of water can sweep away vehicles. Turn around, don't drown. Follow instructions from public safety officials, including the need to evacuate or stay indoors.

What can I do before the rain starts to prepare for flooding?

If your home is in a flood risk zone, consider purchasing flood insurance. Damage caused by flooding is typically not covered by homeowner's insurance. When rain is in the forecast, prevent damage to your home by keeping gutters clear. Keep water away from your home by using sandbags provided by the Santa Monica Fire Department.

All of us can help prevent urban flooding. When stormy conditions are in the forecast, help your community by keeping storm drains clear of leaves, debris and trash. However, safety comes first! Use a rake or broom to clear drains, always wear leather-palmed gloves, avoid sharp objects, and steer clear of street traffic.

What actions do I need to take during a thunderstorm when at the beach?

When thunder roars, go indoors. No place outside is safe during a thunderstorm. 64% of lightning-related fatalities occur as a result of outdoor recreation, the majority from activities occurring in or near the water. The beach, ocean and outdoor areas on the Santa Monica Pier are not safe during a thunderstorm. When you receive notice of a thunderstorm or lightning event from local officials, including LA County Lifeguards or Santa Monica Harbor Patrol, immediately move out of and away from the water and off the beach. Seek shelter inside an enclosed shelter or hard top, closed vehicle.

Learn more at www.weather.gov/safety/lightning