Imperial County Declares Local Emergency Ahead of Tropical Storm Rachael
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-Editorial
Imperial County declared a countywide local emergency Oct. 9 ahead of Tropical Storm Rachael, forecast to bring strong winds and heavy rainfall Sunday, Oct. 11, potentially damaging infrastructure, disrupting essential services, and threatening public safety.
The emergency proclamation comes as the county prepares for possible damage to electrical systems, water infrastructure, transportation networks, and residential and commercial properties.
According to the Imperial County Fire Department and Office of Emergency Services, the storm could exceed the capacity of local emergency personnel, equipment, and resources.
The proclamation was issued under California Government Code Section 8630 and Imperial County Codified Ordinance No. 2.104.060, authorizing emergency declarations when severe conditions threaten public safety and overwhelm local resources.
A copy has been filed with the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services. The Imperial County Board of Supervisors must ratify the declaration within seven days for it to remain in effect.
The proclamation also requests Gov. Gavin Newsom to declare a state of emergency and provide additional assistance if necessary.
Imperial County cited previous severe weather events, including storms during the 1970s and between 2022 and 2025, which damaged roadways, Interstate 8, transportation corridors, and electrical infrastructure.
The county identified sandbag distribution, warnings, and emergency preparations as measures to reduce potential damage.
Sand and sandbags are available at county fire stations on a self-service basis. Residents are encouraged to bring shovels to expedite the process. Prefilled sandbags are available for individuals with access and functional needs at designated county locations.
Residents are advised to secure outdoor furniture and loose objects, clear drainage areas, move vehicles from flood-prone locations, and avoid driving through flooded roadways.
The county also recommends checking on older adults, neighbors, and individuals who may need assistance preparing for severe weather.
The Imperial County Fire Department and Office of Emergency Services will coordinate emergency preparedness and response activities with county departments and neighboring jurisdictions.
Under county ordinance, the Board of Supervisors chairperson serves as director of emergency services, while the county fire chief serves as assistant director.
The emergency declaration establishes a framework for coordinating response operations and requesting additional state assistance if needed.
Imperial County will provide updates as the storm approaches. Residents are encouraged to monitor county communications, emergency alerts, and local weather forecasts for potential road closures, changing conditions, and public safety instructions.
