El Niño is expected to bring storms, flooding, and high tides to San Francisco. We are taking these forecasts seriously, and we want our city and our residents to be ready. That is why I declared a local emergency to give our city departments the resources and flexibility they need to prepare before the worst of the weather arrives and keep San Franciscans safe throughout the season. This emergency declaration will allow city departments to move faster to get the equipment and services they need. It will cut through the usual red tape so departments that manage our critical infrastructure can take action quickly.  Here is how YOU can do your part to prepare: ➡️Sign up for AlertSF by texting your ZIP code to 888-777 or visiting sf.gov/alerts ➡️ Keep flashlights, fresh batteries, and essential supplies where you can access them quickly. ➡️ Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain and strong winds. ➡️Never drive through flooded streets and stay away from flooded areas and downed power lines. ➡️ Report clogged drains, flooding, sewer backups, and downed tree limbs by calling 311. Call 911 for life-threatening emergencies.  ➡️Check in on your neighbors, especially those who may need extra help. We will continue preparing across city departments, and we need every San Franciscan to be ready for severe weather. Public Works will also offer San Francisco residents and businesses up to 10 free sandbags per address year-round, with Sandbag Saturday events in the Marina, Mission, Lakeshore, and other areas planned for November. Check sfpublicworks.org/sandbags for more information.