THE County Board of Supervisors unanimously ratified a countywide local emergency proclamation on Wednesday, January 24 for the Jan. 22 storm that left widespread damage across the region.
The emergency proclamation was declared Monday and by government code, the Board of Supervisors must ratify it within seven days.
Declaring this emergency allows the county to pursue funding and additional resources from the federal and state government.
“I’m grateful to Governor Newsom for declaring a state of emergency so we can continue to get additional resources,” said Board chairwoman Nora Vargas.
During the meeting, chairwoman Vargas also thanked the Office of Emergency Services for working around the clock and working closely with the region’s 18 cities to respond to the emergency.
The Emergency Operations Center was activated Monday after heavy rains slammed into the region. The downpours flooded streets and freeways, led to mudslides and erosion and damaged hundreds of homes forcing some residents to seek shelter.
The National Weather Service reported the storm was the fourth wettest day since 1850. County crews are continuing to assess damage in the unincorporated areas.
Residents and businesses are asked to report damage through a voluntary online survey (https://crisistrack.juvare.com/public/sandiegoCA/request.html). The survey will only be used to gather information to determine if the county is eligible for state and/or federal assistance.
Completing the form does not guarantee that you will be eligible to receive any disaster relief assistance and is not a substitution for filing a claim with your insurance. You should check with your insurance carrier to confirm coverage.
Before cleaning up after the storm, visit the recovery page at AlertSanDiego.org for tips on documenting damage. This will help as you submit costs and claims to your insurance company. You can also get additional information and resources about disaster recovery.
The County urges all county residents to be prepared for emergencies. Register for AlertSanDiego.org and download the SD Emergency mobile app to receive emergency notifications, updates and preparedness information, like a personal disaster plan and go-kit in case of evacuation.
(Tracy DeFore/County of San Diego Communications Office)