American Red Cross Opens Shelter for Sonoma County Storm Victims

The American Red Cross, in coordination with the City of Santa Rosa and County of Sonoma, has opened an emergency shelter in Santa Rosa to assist those affected by Northern California Storm.

Currently, residents impacted by the storm can register at the shelter, where Red Cross workers are providing warm meals, a safe place to sleep and emotional support for those with immediate, disaster-caused needs.

As of 10 p.m. Wednesday, the Red Cross has opened a shelter at Santa Rosa Veterans Memorial, 1351 Maple Ave, Santa Rosa. We are not accepting in-kind donations at the shelter.

Anyone evacuating to a Red Cross shelter should bring essential items for each member of the family:

• Prescriptions and emergency medications
  
• Foods that meet unusual dietary requirements
• Identification to show residence is in affected area and important personal documents
• Extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies and other comfort items
• Supplies needed for children and infants, such as diapers, formula and toys
• Special items for family members who are elderly or disabled
• Chargers for any electronic devices you bring with you
• Books, games and other ways to entertain your family and yourself
• Note – Public health regulations do not permit pets in shelters; service animals are permitted
  

Northern California is experiencing one of the largest storms to hit the region in over a decade. The excessive rainfall and wind could trigger flooding, landslides and power outages. As a result, the American Red Cross encourages all residents to take steps to prepare.

• Download the free Red Cross Flood App to your mobile device. The Red Cross flood app sends location-based flood and flash flood watches and warning alerts from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The app also includes tips on how to assemble an emergency kit for your family in the event of a power outage or evacuation, an “I’m Safe” button to let loved ones know you are okay, and a real-time map to help you find the location of Red Cross shelters should you need to leave your home. The app has a Spanish language toggle switch and can be downloaded by visitingredcross.org/prepare/mobile-apps/flood.
  
  
• Heed Flood Warnings: Listen to your local radio and TV stations for updated flood information. A flood WATCH means flooding or flash flooding is possible in your area. A food WARNING means flooding or flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area. When a flood or flash flood warning is issued for your area, head for higher ground and stay there. To locate the nearest Red Cross emergency shelter, check your flood app or visit redcross.org/shelter.
  

• Stay away from floodwaters. If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankle, stop, turn around and go another way. If you come upon a flooded road while driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water. For more information on what to do before, during and after a flood, please visitredcross.org/prepare/disaster/flood.
  

• Cope with Power Outages: Sudden power outages can be frustrating and troublesome, especially when they last a long time. If a power outage is two hours or less, don’t be concerned about losing your perishable foods. For prolonged power outages, though, there are steps you can take to minimize food loss and to keep all members of your household as comfortable as possible. Visit redcross.org/prepare/disaster/power-outage for tips.
  
  

Related:

Cal Fire Warns of Home Heating Dangers as Storm Approaches.

Before Storm Hits, Check Your Homeowners, Renters Policies.

Avoid Storm Repair Scams.

Slippery When Wet! CHP Reminds You How To Drive In Drizzly Weather and What To Do If Hydroplaning.