Title
Consider receiving a report on the winter storm event of 2021.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Monterey County Water Resources Agency Board of Directors:
Receive a report on the winter storm event of 2021.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
A significant winter storm was forecasted for the Central Coast that included high wind advisories and an atmospheric river event. The three fire burn scars from the Dolan, Carmel and River Fires, were of particular concern due to rainfall intensities with the likely potential for triggering debris flows. Estimated rainfall totals also predicted riverine and lagoon concerns for most of the waterways as well as localized flooding due to inadequate drainage systems.
On January 27, 2021, the Monterey County’s County Administrative Officer issued a Proclamation of a Local Emergency for the winter storm event since it was anticipated to result in multiple significant rainfall/wind events causing damage to public infrastructure and private property within Monterey County. Additionally, the Monterey County Operational Area (EOC) was activated at a Level 2. The National Weather Service issued numerous Flash Flood Watches and Warnings for communities affected by the burn scars, high rainfall intensities, and high streamflow. Monterey County issued numerous Evacuation Warnings and Orders in response to the related advisories.
MCWRA supported the EOC activation by providing real-time rainfall and stream flow information to other County Departments, State and Federal Agencies for emergency operation decision-making. MCWRA also performed various debris clean-up and facility activities to aid in the reduction of flooding for the community.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
Many Federal, State and local agencies coordinated resources during this event. Some of those include Monterey County Office of Emergency Services, Public Works, County Communications, Sherriff’s Office, Libraries, Office of Education, Environmental Health, Caltrans, California Geological Survey, Cal Fire, National Weather Service, United States Geological Survey, Monterey Salinas Transit, various Fire Districts and many cities.
FINANCING:
Staff time associated with the activities described in this report may be reimbursed from FEMA due to the local emergency declaration.
Prepared by: Shaunna Murray, Senior Water Resources Engineer, (831) 755-4860
Approved by: Brent Buche, General Manager (831) 755-4860