Free Sand Bags Available in Preparation for Storm

Free sand bags will be available at all Los Angeles Fire Department stations in preparation for the storm that is expected to hit the Southland Wednesday evening.

Empty bags will be available at all stations, and a select number will also have sand on-site to fill up bags. The storm is expected to last until Sunday, and high surf is likely along the coastline, according to the National Weather service. 

NWS forecasts about a quarter-inch or half-inch of rain in L.A. County, and coastal areas could expect swells as big as 15 feet.

“Highest surf can be expected Thursday afternoon through Friday... then diminish slowly through Saturday night and into Sunday," according to the advisory. "Surf and swell conditions could be hazardous to anyone entering the water late Wednesday through this weekend, with dangerous rip current potential."

In addition to some fire stations that will have sand, residents can pick up sand and bags at Bureau of Street Services locations. Click here for a full list of locations. 

To properly fill a sand bag, the L.A. County of Public Works recommends these steps:

• Fill sandbags half-way. Sand is suggested, however soil can be used. 

• For a more durable and reusable bag, mix 10 parts sand with one part cement. The materials can be mixed and placed dry. After all bags are positions, residents should sprinkle them with water.

• Fold bags and stack them with the folded top toward the upstream or uphill direction.