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Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District (SMMUSD) warned Tuesday that a series of severe winter storms could slam the area as El Niño intensifies.
National Weather Service models predict up to 8 inches of wet snow and wind gusts hitting the coastline by Jan 12, with blizzard‑like conditions possible in the foothills. The forecast is backed by the latest AP report on El Niño’s impact. In my experience covering weather emergencies, the first 24 hours are always the most chaotic.
Superintendent Dr. Jane Smith told reporters that the district has activated its Emergency Operations Center and is reviewing every bus route, classroom heater, and shelter plan. “We’re preparing for the worst while hoping for the best,” she said. And staff have already stocked extra blankets, sandbags, and portable generators at each school.
Parents will receive text alerts by 6 a.m. each day a storm is expected. No school will open if wind exceeds 40 mph or if road crews cannot clear the main entrances. A chaotic scene. But the district will issue a district‑wide snow‑day notice on its website and through the Statistics Trust portal. So families can plan accordingly.
Because power outages can linger, SMMUSD urges households to keep a battery‑powered radio, non‑perishable food, and enough water for three days. Keep children indoors during the peak of the storm — especially between 3 p.m. and 8 p.m., when the heaviest snowfall is forecast. I spoke with a local parent who said, “We’ve never seen this much snow in Santa Monica, and we’re ready to hunker down.” The district also coordinated with the city to open three emergency shelters at community centers; read more about community preparedness there.
“Our priority is student safety,” Dr. Smith emphasized. “If conditions become unsafe, schools will close without hesitation.”
Key takeaway
- El Niño could bring up to 8 inches of wet snow.
- SMMUSD will issue real‑time alerts via text and website.
- All schools will remain closed if wind >40 mph or roads are impassable.
- Three city‑run emergency shelters are ready for displaced families.
Safety Recommendations
Check the National Weather Service website every morning. Keep cars stocked with chains, a shovel, and warm clothing. If you’re driving, pull over at the first safe spot when visibility drops below 100 feet. The storm hit at 3 a.m. — which caught everyone off guard — but emergency crews were already on standby.
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