San Bernardino County in California has managed a series of heavy rainstorms without the damage seen elsewhere in the state. The county’s leaders have acknowledged the county departments and staff for their readiness, coordination, and public communication. The Board of Supervisors Chair, Dawn Rowe, thanked the county team for their storm response. County Fire carried out several swift-water rescues, while County Public Works and other departments closed roads due to storm flows. The county avoided the mudslides that impacted other Southern California communities.
The board approved a state of emergency proclamation signed by county CEO Luther Snoke, who also serves as the county’s Director of Emergency Services. The proclamation was signed before the rain started, alerting the state and federal government of the potential need for help. Rowe advised residents to take precautions and limit travel.
The county’s Emergency Operations Center started coordination meetings with first-responder agencies on January 30 and activated early Sunday night to track the storms. County Public Works, County Fire, and the Sheriff’s Department prepared crews, equipment, and resources to protect communities and ensure a quick response.