Redwood City – As latest storm leaves the Bay Area under a flood watch through this afternoon, here is a list of websites and telephone numbers that can help you stay safe and prepare for future emergencies.
"Know Your Zone"
Emergency managers have carved the Peninsula into zones on an online, publicly available map supported by Zonehaven, a California-based company under contract with the County of San Mateo.
In the event of a weather emergency, wildfire or other situation, law enforcement and fire agencies issue evacuation warnings or evacuation orders for impacted areas. These notices are issued for a zone with an evacuation status.
Each zone is assigned a short code. All residents can enter an address to find their zone. These zones will be pushed out via emergency alerts, County social media platforms and the news media in the event of evacuation orders or other emergencies.
The map is updated by emergency managers and also shows road closures, localized flooding and other hazards.
Evacuation zones are critical in an emergency. Learn why from local first responders.
Get Prepared -- And Be Ready to Evacuate
If you are ordered to evacuate, leave quickly. Here’s what to pack in an emergency kit. (Water, food and a flashlight are must-haves.)
Download a printable version to take with you to the store. Once you take a look at the basic items consider what unique needs your family might have, such as supplies for pets or seniors.
Emergency Alerts
Sign up for emergency notifications at SMC Alert.
Pacific Gas & Electric has an outage map and lets you sign up for alerts by email, text or phone.
Road Conditions
Caltrans provides current highway conditions on:
(You can also call 1-800-427-7623)
Highway 1
Highway 35 (Skyline Boulevard)
Highway 84 (Woodside Road/La Honda Road
Highway 92
Highway 101 (Bayshore Freeway)
Interstate 280
Interstate 380
511.org also provides road delay and closure information.
Sandbag Pick-Up Locations
County residents in unincorporated areas may pick up sandbags free of charge at these locations.
Here is a list of sandbag pick-up locations for cities, with contact information to confirm availability.
County Parks: Storm Impacts
Numerous County Parks are closed. Park and trail updates will be posted here as new information becomes available.
View tips for visiting parks after heavy rains.
Downed Trees
If the branches are entangled in power lines, stay at least 25 feet away and call 9-1-1 immediately. Then, call PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.
If you live in a city, contact your department of public works with questions or requests for service.
The County’s Road Maintenance Division is responsible for emergency repairs and tree removal on the 315 miles of roads the County maintains. Contact the County’s Department of Public Works with questions or requests for service on these roads.
Guidelines for Returning to Flooded Homes and Areas
As our community deals with the impacts of floodwaters on homes and property, San Mateo County Health urges residents to take precautions to protect themselves and their families.
Additional Storm Resources
If you live in one of San Mateo County’s 20 cities, you can often find localized information. View a list of city websites.
County Offices Closed today in Honor of Martin Luther King, Jr.
While County offices are closed on Monday, Jan. 16, 2023, all emergency services are available. County offices will resume normal operations on Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2023.
Michelle Durand
Chief Communications Officer
mdurand@smcgov.org