CSUSB students respond to historic snowstorm

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By Rowan Shultz Staff Writer

Five California State University, San Bernardino, students responded to a questionnaire about their experiences with the blizzards that hit Southern California in February. Their survey responses highlight the need for individuals and communities to be prepared for emergencies and unexpected weather phenomena such as these recent blizzards.

In late February, a historic snowstorm hit Southern California, causing chaos and isolating several mountain communities in San Bernardino County for several weeks. While many were affected, five CSUSB students responded to a survey, and fortunately, none of them were significantly negatively impacted by the storm. The students hailed from various cities, including Montclair, Rialto, Perris, Fontana, and Upland, and was negatively impacted by the storm. As the snow piled up, many communities in the county lost power and access to necessities such as food and water. The impact was felt widely, and many families were left stranded in their homes without heat or electricity for days.

When asked about their level of preparedness for a future snowstorm of this magnitude, the participants had varied responses. Two out of five reported being unprepared, while one out of five had a plan in place, and one out of five was somewhat prepared. The fifth student believed they wouldn’t need to prepare and did not expect to be affected if it were to happen again.

Experts warn that such storms may become more common in the future due to the effects of climate change, so it is essential to be prepared for future weather-related emergencies.

Participants’ responses to emergency heating sources.

The students who knew someone affected by the storm emphasized the importance of being connected to one’s community and checking in on neighbors and loved ones during emergencies. The snowstorm may have been unexpected, but it serves as a reminder that disasters can strike at any time, and it is essential to be prepared.

The lack of negative impacts reported by the five students who participated in the survey may be attributed to their locations and the limited amount of snowfall they received. However, it is crucial to note that the storm had far-reaching effects.

In early March, President Morales released a message of support to staff and students affected by the recent storms. Any students that were struggling through the emergency likely faced issues with getting to class or completing assignments alongside the more pressing complications, and President reported only receiving a few inches of snow. None of the five had ever seen a snowstorm of this severity before, and only one had ever lived outside of California.

Despite not being affected themselves, three out of five students knew someone who the survey highlight the need for individuals and communities to be better prepared for emergencies, even if they believe it is unlikely to affect them personally. This includes having a plan in place and stocking up on supplies such as non-perishable food, water, and

Morales sought to acknowledge some of these difficulties.

“For our students, faculty and staff who live in the mountains, please know that we have not forgotten you,” said Morales in his email. He followed up with information about CSUSB’s efforts to support those affected through local and on-campus resources. Additionally, he provided information on how those less affected by the storm could help others, such as by providing food donations and donating to the Red Cross.

The snowstorm was a stark reminder of the need to be prepared for emergencies. While none of the five participants for the survey were negatively impacted, they recognized the importance of being ready for future weather-related emergencies. The responses from the students serve as a valuable lesson for us all to be prepared, stay connected to our communities, and take care of each other during times of crisis.