Long Beach To Give Away Free Sandbags Ahead Of Winter Storm Season

LONG BEACH, CA — Long Beach residents can collect up to 10 free sandbags at two upcoming distribution events as the city prepares for another potentially severe winter following storms that caused extensive coastal flooding and property damage.

The city announced Friday that it is partnering with Long Beach City College to distribute sandbags ahead of the 2026-27 winter season, which officials warn could be influenced by El Niño conditions.

The initiative follows three consecutive storms that battered the city's coastline, particularly the Peninsula, damaging public and private property and highlighting the vulnerability of low-lying neighborhoods.

"Preparing for severe weather starts long before the next storm arrives," Mayor Rex Richardson said. "Long Beach has a plan to protect our neighborhoods, strengthen our infrastructure and respond when severe weather strikes. We want every household to have a plan, too."

The two drive-through distributions are scheduled for:

• Saturday, Oct. 24: Long Beach City College Trades, Technology and Community Learning Campus, 1305 E. Pacific Coast Highway, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Saturday, Nov. 7: Long Beach City College Liberal Arts Campus, 4901 E. Carson St., Lot M, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

City staff will help load up to 10 sandbags into each vehicle.

Residents unable to attend either event can obtain empty sandbags at neighborhood fire stations. Sand and sandbags are available at Fire Stations 7, 12, 13 and 14, although residents should bring their own shovels or filling equipment.

The preparations follow the City Council's Sept. 22 ratification of a local emergency proclamation intended to strengthen the city's ability to respond to severe winter weather, flooding and coastal damage.

Officials emphasized that sandbags can reduce water entering homes but cannot eliminate flooding risks entirely.

Residents are encouraged to clear gutters and drainage areas, secure outdoor furniture and register for emergency notifications through Alert Long Beach.

Additional storm preparedness information is available through the city's emergency preparedness website.