This year marks the 25^th anniversary of 9/11, a devastating day when a local girl lost her uncle in the terrorist attack, PV resident Andy Garcia perished on UAL flight 93, and thousands died in New York.

September 11 is a day of remembrance, but it is also a reminder to be prepared for any disaster. In that vein, WFPD is planning annual evacuation drills on the anniversary. This year is WFPD’s first event, evacuating the Los Trancos, Vista Verde, and Blue Oaks neighborhoods starting at around 9:00 AM on Friday, Sep-11-2026. Subsequent years will drill in Woodside and then Portola Valley.

This year’s event will direct evacuees to the Town Center, where a de-briefing will be held in the Community Hall, and a wildfire fair will be held with SMC Large Animal rescue, arborists, landscapers, home hardening vendors, and Mister Softee. Emergency responders will be driving up Los Trancos Rd and residents should listen for the Hi-Lo Sirens. Drones will be capturing the traffic flow of the evacuation. WPV-CERT and Ready Communicators will be practicing their skills. The public is encouraged to come to the de-briefing and the fair.

For the latest information and updates, see WFPD’s website at https://www.woodsidefire.org/our-district/district-overview/evacuation-exercise

Please subscribe to Portola Valley eNotices from the WPC and eNotifications from WFPD.  

San Mateo County Alert System SMC Alert is our primary emergency notification system. Encourage all adult members (18 and older) of your family to subscribe.

All the Wildfire Preparedness tips are on the committee’s page. To rate this tip or submit questions or concerns, please fill out this Google Form.