Date: September 16, 2009

Attention: ASCIP Members

El Nino & Winter Weather

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The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) scientists have advised that an El Nino condition is occurring and will continue through winter 2009-2010. "El Nino" is the warming of central Pacific waters of the eastern tropics. El Nino can produce increased rainfall and increases in the number of storms in California. At the present, this El Nino is described as weak to moderate however conditions may change at any time and the impact on California weather remains uncertain.

Funding for educational programs is diminished each time a school site or building is damaged by weather related conditions. Hundreds and even thousands of labor hours are expended to repair damage each time rain, wind or freezing temperatures occur. Therefore, ASCIP Members are encouraged to take proactive steps prior to the start of the winter season to help minimize weather-related damage to school buildings and property. These basic preparations may include:

• Review Storm Water Prevention Plans

• Check all rooftop flashings and penetrations to ensure a tight, leak-free seal

• Check all exterior window caulking and seals to ensure a leak-free seal

• Clear all gutters, scuppers and down spouts of leaves and other obstructions

• Clear all surface drains and runoff channels of leaves and other obstructions

• Check all floor-level exterior door threshold's to ensure that rubber seals are in good condition

• For sub-grade drain sumps, ensure that sump-pumps are tested and properly operating
(The District's Storm Water Prevention Plan should be followed)

For Members in Northern California that experience snow, ice and freezing temperatures, ASCIP also recommends the following basic steps:

• Check or apply insulation to unheated or exposed water lines

• Maintain appropriate temperature levels inside unoccupied buildings to prevent freezing

• Inspect and address tree branches or other overhanging structures that may fail in wind or through accumulation of snow or ice and cause damage to buildings, roofs, electrical and phone lines.

• Take precautions to prevent weather related slip-and-fall incidents.

In the event that a Member suffers a loss to a structure, the loss should be reported to ASCIP immediately. For more information on reporting losses, see ASCIP Risk Alert "The ABC's of Handling Major Loss Events". "

ASCIP Staff is available to answer any questions regarding this event.

Revised October 9, 2009