With a strong winter storm expected to hit the city of Costa Mesa Thursday night and Friday, city crews have been preparing for any inclement weather this week.

Storm drains and flood areas are being checked. Sand and sandbags are are available at fire station No. 4 in case of flooding.

The City will have additional staff on standby with a truck prepped for rain response and possible flooding issues.

Click here for information on how to prepare sand bags.

Below is a warning from the Orange County Public Works Information Office:

With rain forecasted within the next 24 hours, the County is advising everyone, including the homeless community, to stay out of the flood channels, including the Santa Ana River.

Flood channels can be lifethreatening during storm events and public safety is our No. 1 priority.

The County’s storm preparations –and efforts to notify and assist the homeless community involve a coordinated effort across multiple agencies including Orange County Public Works, Health Care Agency, Sheriff’s Department, local cities, and non-profit organizations.

The County is assisted by “211 OC,” to help coordinate assistance. 211 OC has an around the clock phone line to help with all types of emergencies and provides regional connection to resources for disasters victims, the homeless, and others needing health and human services.

Information about 211 OC can be found at www.211OC.org or by simply calling 2-1-1.