Police: Prepare for expected storm

Laguna Beach police are encouraging business owners and residents to set up flood gates Friday, one of several precautions as a powerful winter storm is expected to hit the region and continue through Saturday.

The National Weather Service has issued several watches and advisories, including flash flood and wind, police said in a news release. High tide is scheduled for 8:06 a.m. Friday.

The city is preparing for the storm by boosting staffing in police and public works departments, contacting schools, activating an additional fire engine to handle calls for service, and working with county agencies to keep communication lines open in case assistance is needed.

Laguna residents may pick up empty sandbags at any of the following fire stations: 501 Forest Ave., 285 Agate St., 2900 Alta Laguna Blvd., and 31646 Second Ave.

Free sand is available at the end of the old employee parking lot at 650 Laguna Canyon Road near the “Santa Shed.”

The city is urging all residents to take proper precautions since this is expected to be a stronger than usual storm with predictions of nearly three inches of rain during a 24-hour period.

Comprehensive information about the weather forecast, important phone numbers and storm preparations can be located on the city’s website at: https://www.lagunabeachcity.net.

If the storm impacts the Patriots Day Parade scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday, officials will send text alerts and update parade information on the city’s website.

—Bryce Alderton

Twitter: @AldertonBryce