California is getting ready for more damage, and state and federal officials are telling people to stay on the lookout for storms. Since late December, a series of storms have caused a great deal of destruction and claimed the lives of at least 19 people.

6,000 people have been under evacuation orders as power has been lost in 20,000 households. Homes have been flooded, levees have been breached and topped, and mudslides and hurricane-force winds have hit the state. The atmospheric river pattern has seen some areas meet their average annual rainfall already.

A storm is expected to hit on Saturday, bringing with it heavy snowfall and powerful wind gusts. Damage assessments are expected to surpass $1 billion. The National Guard has been called up to help with relief efforts in a few counties where the state has declared a state of emergency.

With the upcoming storm, officials are warning citizens to be prepared and remain alert. Evacuation orders still remain in place, especially in areas prone to mudslides and flooding. People should also be aware of power outages and other hazards that may arise.

Residents should check for local updates and follow safety protocols and precautions. The California Office of Emergency Services advises that people should have an emergency kit prepared, store important documents in a waterproof container, and keep informed about changing weather conditions.

The series of storms has caused a great deal of destruction and disruption to the citizens of California, and more is yet to come.