As many of you are aware, there are wildfires burning in the Santa Cruz County mountains. These fires have now forced Boulder Creek and neighboring residents to evacuate, and people living in other areas have been put on alert for potential evacuation in the hours ahead. At this time there is no immediate threat to the residential campus, the Coastal Science Campus, Westside Research Park, or the Scotts Valley Center.
Campus leaders are in contact with the county to understand how we can support community needs in the days to come. We will share more information on these efforts as they emerge.
Many of our own employees and students are impacted by these evacuations, and UC Santa Cruz is ready to support its community during this stressful time. It is not yet clear how long people might need to remain away from their homes. These events are unfolding against an already challenging time for you and your families, and we want to ensure you are able to connect with resources to support you.
For immediate support and guidance overnight, the Red Cross recommends the following:
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Be ready in a moment’s notice; be sure to pack belongings such as clothing, non perishable foods for your family and pets, medications and copies of important documents
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Listen to local radio and television stations for updated emergency information
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Confine pets in one room so that you can can find them if you need to evacuate quickly
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Arrange for temporary housing at a friend or relative’s home outside the threatened area
More information can be found on the Red Cross Wildfire Safety website.
For our employees who are impacted and unable to work please inform your manager or department chair of your status and let them know what types of support you need and the best way to reach you. Administrative leaves will be available for those impacted.
We ask that managers and supervisors, many of whom are impacted themselves, also show as much flexibility as possible in accommodating employee needs. Work priorities should be examined in light of this life-threatening situation.
For students who are impacted and need assistance related to emergency housing, food or other support tonight or after business hours please call 831-459-7003. During regular business hours, please contact the on-call Slug Support Case Manager whose information is available at this website.
In addition to support services offered by staff in our colleges and resource centers, Counseling and Psychological Services provides assistance for students. For employees, the Employee Assistance Program can provide counseling and support.
We will provide additional updates as they become available.
