Flood Control Facilities off Limits

According to the most recent weather forecast issued by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), a strong El Niño condition currently exists in the Equatorial Pacific Ocean. The forecast calls for a substantial increase in the number of storms that will hit Southern California this winter season. Based upon these dire predictions, and guidance from the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors, the Flood Control District is implementing proactive measures to protect the safety of people and property susceptible to flooding. This effort includes additional enforcement efforts to safely and effectively deal with people who gain unauthorized access to Flood Control District facilities. This illegal practice is especially dangerous given the upcoming El Nino weather conditions. New signs are being installed to inform the public that access to District facilities, such as the Santa Ana River and City Creek, is not allowed. These new signs reference California Penal Code provisions, as well as District and County Ordinances, relating to removal of unauthorized persons in order to give enforcement teams adequate authority to deal with any circumstance. The Sheriff’s HOPE Team, County Code Enforcement, and City of San Bernardino law enforcement agencies all assist with controlling illegal activity in District facilities. Removal of homeless populations will help prevent the need for future swift water rescues and minimize the risk that associated debris can cause dangerous blockages at bridges and culvert crossings.