Recent weather forecasts show a possibility of rain in Ojai as soon as Monday, January 8, 2018. In anticipation of this rain, the City of Ojai would like to take this opportunity to provide some important information to residents:

  • The City is currently working to increase its resiliency to potential landslides. However, we encourage residents to prepare for the possibility of flash floods and landslides. Residents should consider the following before rainy season begins:

 

  • Assemble an emergency supply kit and stock up on needed items, food and medication
  • Register with VC Alert so you can receive emergency messages for your area
  • Create a list of items to take in case of evacuation
  • Clear debris from gutters, downspouts and drains so water can flow and drain properly
  • Have a supply of sandbags and other flood prevention materials, such as plastic sheeting, plywood and tarps; sandbags are typically available at Ventura County Fire Stations
  • Check your roof for leaks and damages
  • If you live in a flood prone area, consider making permanent changes to your home such as constructing retaining walls and raising your furnace and electrical panel above potential flood levels

 

  • The City has issued a flood insurance advisory. The City Manager, acting under his powers to remediate the effects of the local emergency declared on December 6, 2017 due to the significant wildfires in the Ojai Valley, advises that all Ojai residents immediately consider securing flood insurance that includes protection from losses caused by mud and debris-strewn water flows. As a result of the recent significant wildfire damage to the hills surrounding Ojai, when rain falls in the area this winter, there is a significant probability of mudflow and debris-strewn water flows from the burned hillsides down into the Valley and City. Residents can purchase flood insurance from the national flood insurance program through their preferred insurance carrier or agent. Flood insurance cannot directly be purchased from the state or federal government. The City cannot recommend any specific insurance carrier. Information regarding the National Flood Insurance Program is available at: [http://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program]. Please be advised that most policies have a 30-day waiting period. Please contact your insurance carrier as soon as possible.

 

 

The City’s air quality index is currently listed as “Good.” Ozone and particles are also currently listed as “Good.” Therefore, the City is preparing to lift the City’s emergency leafblower ban, and anticipates that this will be done sometime next week. Check the City’s site for updates.