Extreme snow storms cause County to declare state of emergency

San Bernardino County declared a state of emergency Monday after mountain community residents found themselves trapped at home or unable to reach home due to several feet of snow that fell over the past weekend.

The declaration seeks state and federal assistance to clear snow from mountain highways and neighborhood streets and support any other necessary work and services.

“Today’s emergency declaration is an important step which will elevate the state’s response to this extreme weather event,” said Board of Supervisors Chair Dawn Rowe, whose Third District includes the impacted mountain communities. “Our team of state and local partners will continue working round-the-clock on a coordinated and comprehensive strategy to bring relief and resources to our residents, while also prioritizing the safety of all.”

County Public Works and Caltrans crews have been working around the clock to create access along key routes. However, there is no estimate for when mountain highways will open to public traffic or when residential areas will be safe for local travel.

Secondary roads will be completed once primary roads are passable. When storms stop, the County says it will begin work on widening and clearing roads.

An emergency shelter and resource center has been set up for mountain residents who cannot get home at Redlands East Valley High School, 31000 E. Colton Ave. in Redlands.