⚠️ Major Storm System Forecast: Sandbags Available for RSF Residents

Forecasts are currently calling for a substantial rain event impacting the Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District beginning Friday, November 14, peaking on Saturday, November 15, with another potential storm early next week.

As of this notice, projected rainfall totals are:

• Up to 3 inches along the coast
• Up to 6 inches in the mountains

If this storm comes to fruition, it may create significant, area-wide impacts, including:

• Possible debris flows in recent burn areas
• Significant ponding of water on roads and highways
• Rivers and streams potentially reaching flood stage
• Mudslides and fallen trees, especially in saturated or steep areas

This storm is associated with a cut-off low-pressure system and can “wobble” offshore without much steering. This makes the exact track of the system harder to predict, and even a small change in its path can greatly affect actual rainfall totals and local impacts.

Sandbag Availability

To help residents prepare, sandbags are available throughout the District:

• All RSF Fire Protection District stations have sandbags available
• Stations 4 and 6 also have sand for filling
• There is a maximum of 10 sandbags per residence
• Proof of residence within the Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District is required

Please plan ahead and pick up sandbags before the heaviest rain arrives.

How Residents Can Prepare

Residents are encouraged to take the following steps:

• Inspect and clear gutters, drains, and downspouts to help reduce localized flooding.
• Check slopes, retaining walls, and known problem areas around your property.
• Secure or bring inside outdoor furniture, umbrellas, trash cans, and other loose items that could be moved by wind or water.
• Avoid driving through flooded roadways—turn around, don’t drown.
• Be mindful of areas near creeks, streams, and low-lying roads, which may flood more quickly.

Stay Informed

The District will continue to monitor updated weather forecasts and conditions as this system evolves. Because of the storm’s cut-off, slow-moving nature, conditions may change, and impacts could be greater or less than currently forecast.

Please follow official updates from:

• Rancho Santa Fe Fire Protection District
• County and regional emergency management agencies
• National Weather Service

We appreciate the community’s cooperation in preparing early and staying alert.

Stay safe, stay informed, and don’t hesitate to reach out to emergency services in the event of life safety concerns.