Gov. Newsom signs order extending emergency response from storm

Governor Gavin Newsom signed an emergency declaration extension on Monday that will help further bolster the state's response to the damaging storms that moved through the area over the last several weeks.

The extension builds on a state disaster declaration that preceded a federal emergency declaration issued by President Biden. It comes after nearly two dozen people across California lost their lives in connection with the storms.

"With lingering storms expected through mid-week, the state continues to work with local and federal partners to prepare for and respond to flooding, debris flow and other storm-related emergencies," a spokesperson for the governor's office said in a statement.

The extension signed on Monday puts into place several disaster-related measures, including:

• waiving work hour limitations for retired annuitants, a move that will help ensure adequate staffing for emergency response;
• waiving fees for replacement birth and marriage certificates, so residents impacted by the storms can get replacements that were damaged;
• flexible health care facilities in areas that are impacted, ensuring they remain open to help address those who have developed illnesses or injuries associated with the storms.

The bulk of the winter storm system has crossed through the area, though there will be a mild rain event later in the week, with showers possible between Wednesday and Thursday. While the rain and the wind event is largely over, local officials are still monitoring water levels in area creeks and lakes for possible flood effects. Travel to the foothills and mountains will remain difficult due to snow.