The County of San Diego said it and CAL FIRE will provide free sand and bags at fire stations in unincorporated communities ahead of national forecasts for heavy rain this weekend.

The county posted a list of sand-and-bag sites that includes Sunnyside Fire Station #38 in Bonita, Boulevard Fire Station #47, multiple Julian and Ramona stations, Warner Springs and other rural stations; a separate set of locations are listed as bag-only sites, including Alpine Fire Station #17 and Borrego Springs Fire Station #60.

Residents who live in incorporated cities can find sandbag pick-up locations on the county’s complete list; the county also directed residents to the AlertSanDiego El Niño 2026 Informational Hub for additional storm-preparation guidance.

Bring a shovel to fill bags and call ahead to double-check availability; the county warned some stations may have a limited supply. The county noted Fallbrook’s Pala Mesa Fire Station #4 is closed for construction as of July 2026 and is expected to remain closed through 2027.

The Lakeside River Park Conservancy site will have limited pre-made sandbags for elderly and disabled residents; the county said the allotment is 10 per household. Residents should pick up sandbags before the rain arrives to protect homes, driveways and storm drains.

Sources & methodology

This report was written from the primary materials below. Links open at the original publisher.

County of San Diego

See something we should correct? Read our corrections policy.