Full Notification

Another potentially hazardous storm is expected in Marin County starting Monday afternoon. A Flash Flood Watch is in effect from today through late Wednesday evening.  We'll be seeing moderate to heavy rain with rainfall totals of 3-5 inches near the coast valleys of the North Bay. In the hills and mountains of the North Bay rainfall could exceed five inches and reach nine inches in places. Since our soils are already saturated, and rivers and creeks could rise rapidly, we once again are under a Flash Flood Warning, from late tonight through Tuesday night. This is subject to change as the weather system moves in and through our area.

The National Weather Service warns of flooding in low lying areas, and possible shallow landslides and debris flows in steep terrain. Monday through Wednesday commutes will be difficult under these conditions.

Please Note: In heavy runoff years the County Flood Control District has been able to breach the Novato Creek levee downstream of Highway 101 near the hospital during storms to help lower the water levels in Novato Creek.  Due to recent flooding near Highway 37, and persistent high water levels in the wetlands east of Vintage Oaks Shopping Center, this cannot be used this year to lower flood levels. 

Residents along the lower reaches of Novato Creek should anticipate high flood water levels during periods of heavy rain.
Prepare in advance:

• Clean debris from gutters.
• Limb up weak trees or remove them entirely.
• Secure outdoor furniture.
• Check your storm drains and clear debris if necessary.
• Keep pets inside for safety. 
• Fix any loose screens or cracked windows.
• Get sandbags and sand. 

The City of Novato provides free self-serve sandbags and sand at its Corp Yard Facility at 550 Davidson Avenue, east of Highway 101 near De Long Avenue.

Sandbags will also be available at the Hamilton Theater, at 555 Palm Drive. 

Residents should bring their own shovels and gloves.  The limit is 10 sandbags per household, first come first serve. For more information: novato.org/sandbags

During the storm, make sure you:

• Remain at home and avoid driving if possible.
• Keep away from downed or hanging power lines. Consider all downed lines to be energized.
• Have batteries ready to go for flashlights, radios and other devices.
• Avoid standing water. Do not drive or walk in flooded areas.
• Keep away from emergency vehicles and take alternate roads.
• Stop at all intersections where the traffic lights or power is out. Treat these intersections as a 4 way stop.

To report flooding or downed trees within Novato, please contact the City of Novato

• Between 7:00 am and 4:30 pm
  • Public Works Department at (415) 899-8280
• After hours between 4:30 pm and 7:00 am
  • Novato Police Department at (415) 897-4361

If you need emergency response, please call 9-1-1. 

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