Winter Readiness
Winter Readiness: Preparing Together
Everything you need to prepare your home, your family and your neighbors for a strong storm season, all in one place.
Forecasters expect a strong El Niño this winter, which can bring heavy rain, flooding, high surf, downed trees and power outages. The City and our partners are preparing, and we’re here to help you do the same. This page will be updated throughout the season, so check back often.
STORM UPDATES
Latest Storm Information
Last updated: Oct. 27, 2026
There are no active storm alerts at this time. During storms, we’ll post the latest updates here, including road closures, sandbag availability and power outage information. Follow the City on social media for real-time updates.
5 STEPS TO GET READY
STEP 1
Get Alerts
Sign up for Alert Monterey County to get free emergency notifications by text, phone or email. It’s the fastest way to hear about evacuations, road closures and severe weather.
STEP 2
Prepare Your Home
Get ready for winter storms with a few simple steps you can take now:
- Clear gutters, storm drains and dead branches
- Refresh your emergency kit with water, food, medications, flashlights, chargers and important documents
- Plan for pets and anyone in your home who needs extra help
- Know where your low spots are and where water could enter your home
STEP 3
Pick Up Free Sandbags
Free sandbags are available at the Sunset Center south parking lot and the Vista Lobos parking lot. Please start with five or fewer, and come back if you need more.
Need help filling or carrying sandbags? Call Public Works at (831) 620-2070. Staff may be available to assist.
STEP 4
Plan for Power Outages
Have a backup plan for lights, phone charging and food storage. A portable battery can keep essentials running. Make sure you’re signed up for PG&E outage alerts, and text “Status” to 97503 anytime to get the outage status for your address.
See a downed power line? Stay away and call 911.
STEP 5
Check on Your Neighbors
Not everyone has extra supplies or a way to evacuate. If you’re worried about a neighbor, call the Carmel Police Department at (831) 624-6403. Neighbors who need extra help can also be added to the Carmel Safety Alliance Program.
RESOURCES
Important Phone Numbers
Who to call when you need help
Save these numbers in your phone so you have them when you need them.
EMERGENCY
Stay Alert
Official storm updates from our partners
Sign up for alerts and find official storm updates from our partners.
EMERGENCY ALERTS
Alert Monterey County: Get free emergency alerts by text, call or email.
Free Sandbags
Two pickup spots in the village
PICKUP LOCATIONS
Sunset Center south parking lot
Vista Lobos parking lot
Please start with five or fewer, and come back if you need more.
Presentation
October 12th El Niño Community Meeting
OCT. 12 COMMUNITY MEETING
Couldn’t make it? We’ve got you covered.
Thank you to everyone who joined us! View the full slide presentation below. You can also watch the meeting recording and read answers to your questions in the Winter Readiness resources.
El Niño Community Meeting
Watch the Panel Presentation & Q&A
OCT. 12 COMMUNITY MEETING
Watch the full panel presentation and Q&A from our El Niño Community Meeting. Find answers to the questions asked during the meeting in “Your Questions, Answered.”