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Sierra Madre issues evacuation warning for high‑risk areas ahead of March storms
Summary
City public safety officials warned residents that debris basins are full and issued an evacuation warning for high‑risk zones effective 6 a.m. March 5 through 6 a.m. March 7, urging preparedness and immediate compliance if orders become mandatory.
Sierra Madre City public safety officials issued an evacuation warning for high‑risk areas ahead of an approaching storm expected to begin 6 a.m. Wednesday, March 5, and remain in effect through 6 a.m. Friday, March 7. City staff said the warning is a Phase 1 alert and residents should use the Genesys system to identify their evacuation zone and be prepared to leave on short notice.
The warning matters because, officials said, debris basins that were empty before the February storm are now full. “When the February storm hit, all of our debris basins were empty. That is not the case this time,” Chief Bartlett said. Officials warned that the filled basins increase the risk of severe flooding, mud flows and debris flows if the upcoming storm brings significant rainfall.
Police Chief Gus Barrientos said the city may escalate the alert to Phase 2 or Phase 3 if conditions worsen, at which point evacuation orders would be mandatory. “If an evacuation order is issued, it is mandatory. You must leave immediately,” Police Chief Gus Barrientos said, adding that ignoring orders endangers residents and first responders. Officials emphasized that once an active debris flow begins, emergency crews will not be able to enter the flow zone and residents could be trapped for days.
City officials listed steps residents should take now: monitor weather updates and city alerts, prepare an emergency bag, secure homes, and follow evacuation instructions without delay. The city also announced red‑flag parking restrictions are in effect and that sandbags are available to residents at the City Yard. Officials urged people to follow the city’s official website and social media for updates.
The briefing closed with a reminder that preparation is the best protection. “Preparation and action saves lives,” Police Chief Gus Barrientos said. The city said it will provide further updates as the storm develops.
