The National Weather Service is forecasting a series of winter storms to impact the City of Sonoma through Christmas morning (December 25th). While this weather pattern is not expected to cause major flooding, it may bring periods of steady rain, gusty winds, and localized impacts during a busy holiday travel week.
Forecasts indicate several storm systems over the next seven days, with varying intensity. Aggregate rainfall totals for the week could be significant, and wind gusts exceeding 25 mph are possible at times, particularly Sunday through Monday night. As with any extended rain event, residents may experience nuisance flooding, minor landslides, fallen branches or trees, and brief power outages.
Overall, this weather pattern is considered a moderate threat, and conditions may change as storms move through the region.
Preparing for the Storms
City crews have increased street sweeping and storm drain clearing in advance of the storms. Sand has also been refreshed at the sandbag filling station at Depot Park, and sandbags have been replenished in the alcove near the front entrance of City Hall.
Residents are encouraged to take simple steps to prepare:
- Clear leaves and debris from gutters and nearby storm drains.
- Secure outdoor items and holiday decorations that could be affected by wind.
- If your property has a history of flooding, consider preparing sandbags in advance.
- Charge electronic devices and keep flashlights handy in case of brief power outages.
- Allow extra travel time and drive cautiously during periods of heavy rain.
Sandbag Information
Sandbags and sand are available at the following locations. All sandbag filling stations are do-it-yourself. Please bring your own shovel and take only what you need so supplies remain available for others.
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Depot Park (270 1st Street West) Sandbag Filing Station
Free sand is available for City of Sonoma residents at the self-serve sandbag filling station. -
Bags for Filing at City Hall (177 First Street West)
Free sandbags are available in the alcove near the front entrance (limit 10 bags per resident, while supplies last). -
Felder Road & Arnold Drive (County-staged location)
Sonoma County Roads has staged a self-serve sandbag filling station with both sand and bags available. Please do not drive past the caution tape when accessing this location.
Additional sandbags may be purchased at Friedman’s Home Improvement Center (1360 Broadway). Instructions on how to properly fill, stack, and place sandbags are available on the City’s website.
How to Report Storm-Related Issues
To report localized flooding, fallen branches, or other storm-related hazards within Sonoma city limits:
- During regular business hours (Mon–Fri, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.): Call the City of Sonoma Public Works Department at (707) 938-3332.
- After hours: Call Sonoma Police Department Non-Emergency Dispatch at (707) 996-3601.
- For emergencies posing an immediate threat to life or property, dial 9-1-1.
Stay Informed
Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts at on the National Weather Service website, follow local news, or listen to NOAA Weather Radio for updates.
For additional preparedness tips, including an emergency supplies checklist and flood safety information, visit the City’s Emergency Preparedness page. To stay informed during storm events, be sure you are signed up for SoCo Alerts and Nixle.
City staff will continue to monitor conditions and share updates as needed throughout the holiday week.