SACRAMENTO – California Emergency Management Agency (Cal EMA) Acting Secretary Mike Dayton is urging Californians to prepare for wetter, colder weather as a series of storms is predicted to bring moderate to heavy rains, gusty winds and cooler temperatures to many areas of the state.

“According to the National Weather Service, this week's storms could cause temperatures in some areas to drop between 15 and 30 degrees as well as urban street flooding and power outages in some areas of the state,” said Dayton.

These storms are also expected to bring snow to the southern Cascade Mountains and Sierra Nevada Mountains in Northern California and the higher elevations in the mountains of southwest California. Additionally, persons living near burn areas caused by recent fires should review the signs of potential ground failure, including landslides, mudflows and debris flows.

The change in season is a perfect time for Californians to update their emergency plans, replenish emergency supplies and take steps to reduce damage to their homes and offices.

Emergency plans should include the name and telephone numbers of an out-of-town contact, a place to reunite if family members are separated and safe routes from your home or office to higher ground.

At a minimum, emergency supply kits should include a three-day supply of drinking water for each person, food, a first aid kit, a battery-operated radio, a flashlight, extra batteries, cash and a manual can opener.

Homeowners can reduce the impact of rain-damage and cold temperatures by insulating walls and attics, caulking and weather stripping doors and windows, installing storm window, clearing rain gutters and cutting tree branches that could fall and cause injury or damages.

For additional information please visit the California Emergency Management Agency at www.calema.ca.gov.