As Hurricanes Polo and Odalys draw nearer to the Southern California coast, local fire agencies are stepping up to help families and businesses brace for the storms. Ready‑to‑fill sandbags are being offered free of charge at participating fire stations throughout Los Angeles, Orange County and Ventura County.
How to obtain sandbags
Residents who need sandbags should call their nearest fire station ahead of time to confirm availability. While most stations have sandbags on hand, not every location can supply them, and some may require proof of residency within the community where the pickup site is located. Those who are able to collect sandbags are encouraged to bring a shovel to fill them on site.
Where to find participating stations
The Los Angeles Fire Department provides a list of stations offering sandbags here. An interactive map for locating the closest fire station is also available here. The Orange County Fire Authority and Ventura County Fire Department each maintain their own lists of participating stations, linked respectively here and here.
Official warnings and safety tips
The Los Angeles Emergency Management Department issued an alert on Friday afternoon warning that coastal flooding, erosion and high surf are expected in Los Angeles beach areas from Sunday night through Wednesday. Moderate coastal flooding could inundate parking lots, beaches and walkways during high tides. Officials also highlighted an elevated risk of drowning due to strong rip currents that may pull swimmers and surfers out to sea.
Large breaking waves could cause injuries, sweep people off beaches and rocks, and capsize small boats near shore. Enhanced beach erosion is also anticipated. In addition, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has advised residents to avoid swimming, surfing and playing in ocean water at select county beaches because bacterial levels exceed state health standards.
Stay informed
Authorities urge residents to monitor the National Weather Service forecasts and advisories at weather.gov/lox as conditions develop. Comprehensive emergency‑preparedness information is available online here.
By taking advantage of the free sandbag program and following official safety guidance, Southern California families can better protect their property and stay safe during the upcoming storm impacts.
Original reporting: NBC4 Los Angeles — read the source article.
