Full Notification

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch and a high wind watch for January 4th and January 5th, which includes the City of Mill Valley.  We encourage residents in low-lying, flood-prone areas to move their vehicles to higher ground and consider using the Mill Valley Community Center (180 Camino Alto, Mill Valley, CA) as a parking option. 
 
Hazardous Weather Conditions
 
Another Atmospheric River arrives Wednesday, January 4th, 2023 into Thursday, January 5th, 2023 with heavy rain leading to likely flooding across the Bay Area.
 
Flood Watch in effect from 4:00AM Wednesday, January 4 through 4:00PM January 5.
High Wind Warning in effect from 4:00AM January 4 until 10:00 AM January 5.
 
What could this mean for Marin residents? 
 

• Localized flooding will occur in low-lying areas or where storm drains or drainage systems are temporarily blocked by debris. 
• Flooded roadways especially in low-lying or flood prone areas, like Miller Avenue, Tam Junction, or where debris flow. 
• Slick roadways. 
• Slides (mud / debris) in areas with steep hillsides.
• High stream/creek levels, possibly reading flood stage in some areas of the County. 
• Strong gusty winds could blow around unsecured objects and blow down tree limbs.
• Power outages may result from strong winds and rain.

 
Special Advisory to Residents in Low-Lying Areas
 
Mill Valley has had a history of experiencing localized flooding in low-lying areas. If you live in an area that has a history of flooding, it is highly recommended that you be proactive now and stay alert.  
 

• Monitor the local creek and tide levels. 
• Consider moving personal belongings to higher ground, including vehicles.
• Avoid walking in flood waters as this could pose a threat of injury or death.  
• If present, avoid down power lines.  
• If conditions worsen, the Fire Department recommends you shelter in place.

 
PREPARE FOR THE STORM
 

• Secure garbage cans, lawn furniture or anything that could become airborne and cause damage. 
• Clean out gutters, storm drains, etc. (keeping drains clear of trash, leaves and branches) so rainwaters can easily flow, reducing possible flooding and ponding.
• Make sure your emergency kit is up-to-date: have a flashlight, radio and spare batteries handy if the power goes out.
• Commuters who travel in areas with a history of flooding are advised to monitor high tides. Check traffic conditions prior to your trip to anticipate congestion. Road closures are often posted by the Mill Valley Police Department on Twitter.
• Please be advised to keep out of creeks and waterways during the storm.
• Sign up for alerts and warnings.

 
Power Outages/Downed Power Lines
 
Residents are advised of possible downed trees and power lines. Report downed power lines by calling 9-1-1 and PGE at 1-800-743-5002. Stay away from the downed powerlines and assume they are energized and dangerous. 
 

• Check to make sure you have batteries, fully charged back-up battery packs for your devices, and a battery powered radio.
• Recharge your laptop computer, cell phone, and other mobile devices as a precaution against a power outage.
• Have flashlights with extra batteries for every household member.
• Freeze water bottles or bags of water for food storage if the power goes out.
• Have enough nonperishable food and water.
• Make sure you can open your garage door if the power goes out.

 
If the power goes out:
 

• Do not call 9-1-1 unless you are having a life-threatening emergency.
• Call (800) 743-5000 or check the PG&E Outage Map for updates. 
• Monitor local news for information and updates - local AM radio stations are a good source of information
• More tips for keeping safe during a power outage are here.

 
If you see a downed power line call 911 immediately. For more safety information about downed power lines visit PG&E's website here.

Stock up on Sandbags
 
We urge residents to take preparedness measures by seeking sand and sandbags should they need them. Watch a video on how to fill and place sandbags.
 
Sand and bags can be purchased at local hardware stores. Sand and sandbags may also be located at the following locations:*
 

• Hauke Park parking lot next to Public Safety Building, 1 Hamilton Drive
• Thalia parking lot at Boyle Park off of East Blithedale Avenue
• Parking area on Molino Ave., behind Old Mill Park (approximately 100' yards east of Molino Avenue/Cascade Way)

 
*These locations have limited stockpiles of sand and sandbags for emergency use during the rainy season. To use these stockpiles, you must supply your own labor, shovels and support.
 
Please be safe and only call 9-1-1 to report an emergency. For non-emergency assistance, please contact the Mill Valley Police Department at (415) 389-4100.