Northern California Braces for Severe Winter Storm: Emergency Measures and Warming Centers Activated

As a significant winter weather system looms over the Northern California area, authorities and organizations in Humboldt County, and beyond, are taking preemptive action to ensure the safety and well-being of residents. The National Weather Service forecasts a prolonged winter storm starting Thursday and lasting through Sunday, with snow levels anticipated to drop to 1,000 feet or less by the weekend.

Emergency Weather Centers Activation:

Arcata House Partnership (AHP) is gearing up to open its overnight emergency weather center starting Thursday, February 29, and may extend operations through the weekend based on the storm’s progression. Check-in for the emergency center will occur between 1 to 4 p.m. at the AHP Annex, located at 501 Ninth St. in Arcata. Meanwhile, Eureka is closely monitoring the weather and coordinating with volunteers for a potential warming center activation. Plans are also in motion for Southern Humboldt to open its center on Saturday morning.

For information on open warming centers for both day and night use, residents are urged to call 2-1-1 or visit 211humboldt.org. The 2-1-1 Humboldt helpline is operational 24/7 and provides details on local programs and resources. Volunteers are crucial in assisting with the opening and functioning of various warming centers. Those willing to contribute can sign up by filling out a survey at surveymonkey.com/r/JGLLV8G.

Travel Advisory and Road Conditions:

Caltrans issues a stern advisory discouraging travel during inclement winter weather. The forecasted snow levels may result in chain controls in many areas. Motorists venturing into higher elevations are urged to carry chains, be prepared for winter driving conditions, anticipate delays, and stay updated on weather and roadway conditions. Caltrans emphasizes the importance of complying with chain controls to ensure the safety of all motorists.

Motorists are reminded to be cautious when traveling through recent burn scar areas and to reduce speed during inclement weather. Non-highway alternative routes may not be maintained or open during winter weather events and could have size restrictions for larger vehicles.

Though coastal residents aren’t expected to see snow, hail is a possibility. Meteorologist Matthew Kidwell cautions coastal residents and visitors to beware of lingering hail on area roadways that may take 15 minutes or longer to melt after a hailstorm, leading to prolonged driving hazards.

Stay Informed:

To stay informed about highway conditions, residents are encouraged to use resources like QuickMap, available as a free app for smartphones, and Caltrans also provides real-time updates on their social media pages, ensuring the public remains well-informed about the evolving situation.

As the storm approaches, the Humboldt Housing & Homelessness Coalition, a Continuum of Care comprising various organizations and community members, stands committed to addressing the needs of those experiencing homelessness. For more information, visit humboldtgov.org/HHHC.

Residents are strongly advised to heed warnings, stay updated through official channels, and prioritize safety as Northern California prepares for the impact of this severe winter storm.