Calistoga City Council
October 6, 2026

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-10
Figure 9-1: NCOE Geographic Overview Map
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-11

9.2.2 Campus Building Inventory & Lifelines
The NCOE operates and supports a distributed network of educational facilities and program sites throughout Napa County, rather than a single centralized campus. These facilities include administrative offices, alternative education sites, special education classrooms, and programs that are often co-located within or hosted by local school districts and third-party facilities. As a result, the NCOE building inventory consists of a mix of owned, leased, and shared-use spaces, with varying building ages, construction types, and compliance with modern building codes. Because many NCOE programs are embedded within partner facilities, future development is expected to focus on programmatic expansion, modernization, and coordination with host sites rather than large-scale new construction.

NCOE maintains available facility and operational data to support planning and hazard mitigation; however, responsibility for detailed building characteristics and infrastructure systems may reside with the owning jurisdiction or host district for shared-use facilities. This distributed facility model requires coordination across multiple agencies to support comprehensive vulnerability assessments and mitigation planning.

Safety & Security
Law enforcement services for NCOE facilities are provided by the jurisdiction in which each site is located, including local police departments and the Napa County Sheriff’s Office. Because many NCOE programs operate within district or third-party facilities, security functions are typically managed by the host agency, with NCOE staff coordinating as needed. This multi-agency approach supports emergency response but requires clear communication and defined roles across jurisdictions.

Fire protection services are similarly provided by local fire districts and municipal fire departments serving each facility location. NCOE-operated and shared facilities are generally equipped with standard life safety systems, including fire alarms and suppression systems, consistent with applicable codes; however, maintenance and system oversight are often the responsibility of the facility owner.

Water
Water service to NCOE facilities is provided through local municipal or district water systems depending on site location. Because facilities are geographically dispersed and frequently co-located, NCOE does not directly manage water infrastructure in most cases. Water supply reliability is therefore dependent on the host jurisdiction and may be affected by drought, infrastructure failure, or emergency conditions.

Health & Medical
NCOE does not operate full-scale medical facilities but supports student health through program-based services and coordination with local healthcare providers. Emergency medical response is provided by local emergency medical services and nearby hospitals. Access to care during hazard events may be impacted by regional disruptions, including transportation or utility outages.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-12
Energy (Power & Fuel)
Electrical power for NCOE facilities is provided by regional utilities, primarily Pacific Gas and Electric Company. As with other infrastructure systems, NCOE is largely dependent on host facility systems and the broader electrical grid. Backup power availability varies by site and is typically managed by the facility owner, which may limit continuity of operations during extended outages.

Communications
NCOE relies on a combination of communication systems, including internet, telephone, and emergency notification platforms, to support coordination across its distributed sites. These systems are integrated with partner school districts and local emergency management agencies. While generally reliable, communications may be degraded during large-scale hazard events affecting regional infrastructure.

Transportation
Access to NCOE facilities is dependent on the local and regional transportation network, including highways, arterial roads, and local streets serving each site. Because programs are distributed across the county, transportation access varies widely and may be affected by hazards such as flooding, wildfire, or roadway disruptions. This dispersed model requires site-specific evacuation and access planning.

Hazardous Materials
NCOE operations involve limited use of hazardous materials, primarily associated with instructional or support activities within shared facilities. Management of hazardous materials is typically governed by the host site’s protocols and regulatory requirements. While risks are generally low, coordination with host agencies is necessary to ensure proper handling and emergency response procedures are in place.

Overall, the decentralized nature of NCOE facilities presents unique considerations for hazard mitigation planning. Unlike a single-campus institution, NCOE must rely on coordination with multiple jurisdictions and facility operators to assess vulnerabilities, implement mitigation measures, and support continuity of operations across its network of educational service locations.

9.2.3 Student Body & Staff
The NCOE serves as a countywide agency responsible for delivering specialized educational programs and services to a diverse and continually changing student population. Its service population changes each academic year; hence, providing a traditional assessment of demographics and vulnerable populations using American Community Survey data would not provide meaningful insight into the Office of Education’s service population. Volume 1 provides the demographic characteristics of Napa County as a whole.

Rather than representing a fixed residential population, NCOE supports students across multiple school districts, including Calistoga Joint Unified School District, Howell Mountain Elementary School District, Napa Valley Unified School District, Pope Valley Union Elementary School District, St. Helena Unified School CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-13
District, as well as NCOE-operated programs. Due to annual fluctuations in enrollment, program participation, and inter-district service delivery, traditional demographic datasets such as the U.S. Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) do not fully capture the characteristics of the population served.

Age is a significant factor in assessing vulnerability to natural hazards, particularly for school-aged populations served by the NCOE and its partner districts. Children are considered a dependent population due to their reliance on caregivers, educators, and institutional systems for safety, mobility, and decisionmaking during emergency events. This dependency increases risk during disasters such as wildfires, floods, and earthquakes—especially when compounded by additional factors such as housing instability, poverty, or limited access to resources.

To better represent the population relevant to hazard mitigation planning, this assessment utilizes student enrollment and estimated staff data to characterize the population present at educational facilities during normal operations. As summarized in Table 9-1, the combined student population across these districts is approximately 18,585, with an estimated 1,436 staff, resulting in a total daytime population of approximately 20,021 individuals. The majority of this population is concentrated within Napa Valley Unified School District, which accounts for over 85 % of total student enrollment.

This combined student and staff population represents a critical vulnerable group for hazard mitigation planning purposes. School populations include children. who are considered a vulnerable population due to their dependency on supervision, limited mobility, and increased sensitivity to hazards—as well as educators and support staff responsible for emergency response and continuity of services. These populations are typically concentrated in specific facilities during daytime hours, which has important implications for evacuation planning, emergency response, and continuity of operations.

Volume 1 provides the demographic characteristics of Napa County as a whole. The total population, total number of households, and average household size of Napa County and the five incorporated municipalities are presented in Table 9-1. As shown in the table, Napa County’s population exceeds 137,000, with an average household size of 2.4 persons.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-14
Table 9-1: Napa County Schools Student and Staff Population District / Agency
Total
Students
Estimated Staff
(FTEs)
Total Population
(Students + Staff)
Calistoga Joint Unified School District 768 51 819
Howell Mountain Elementary School District 85 11 96.00
Napa County Office of Education 200 38 238
Napa Valley Unified School District 16,381 674 17,055
Pope Valley Union Elementary School District 46 6 52
St. Helena Unified School District 1,105 69 1,174
Total Napa County 18,585 849 19,434
Source: Data Quest (2024-25 Enrollment)The total exposed population (students + staff) represents the population potentially present at school facilities during operational hours

9.2.4 Income & Housing
The Napa County Office of Education is a countywide agency that provides very specific education and supervision services. Moreover, its service population changes each academic year. Hence, providing a traditional assessment of demographics and vulnerable populations using American Community Survey data would not provide meaningful insight into the Office of Education’s service population.

Volume 1 provides the demographic characteristics of Napa Cunty as a whole. Median income and poverty rates for Napa County are summarized in Table 9-2. As shown in the table, the median income for Napa County is close t $106,000 and the poverty rate is close to 8%.

Owner- and renter occupied numbers are provided in Table 9-3. As shown in the table, renters account for 35% of households and owners account for 65% of households in Napa County.

Table 9-2: Napa County Income and Poverty
Area Median Income Poverty Rate
Napa County (Unincorporated) $105,809 7.9%
American Canyon $122,694 7.4%
Calistoga $96,667 5.4%
Napa (City) $100,273 8.1%
St. Helena $135,781 5.7%
Yountville $75,134 10.6%
Source: ACS 5-Year, 2017-2022
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-15
Table 9-3: Napa County Renter- and Owner-Occupied Housing Area Total Occupied Housing Units Renter Rent % Owner Own % Napa County (Unincorporated) 49,218 17,142 35% 32,076 65% American Canyon 5,725 1,205 21% 4,520 79%
Calistoga 2,116 776 37% 1,340 63%
Napa (City) 29,443 12,052 41% 17,391 59%
St. Helena 2,466 792 32% 1,674 68%
Yountville 1,516 514 34% 1,002 66%
Source: ACS 5-Year, 2017-2022
Homelessness Among Students
Within Napa County, student data indicate that a subset of the school population experiences homelessness or housing instability, representing a particularly vulnerable group. As shown in Table 9-4, approximately 831 students countywide are identified as homeless, representing about 4.5% of total enrollment. The majority of these students (approximately 80.9%) are classified as “temporarily doubled-up,” meaning they are living with other families due to economic hardship. Smaller proportions reside in shelters (6.9%), hotels or motels (10.3%), or are unsheltered (1.9%). These living situations often lack stability, adequate resources, and consistent access to services, increasing vulnerability during hazard events.

Homeless student populations are most concentrated in Napa Valley Unified School District (749 students), with smaller but notable populations in other districts, including St. Helena Unified (26 students), Napa County Office of Education programs (20 students), and Calistoga Joint Unified (16 students). Even in smaller districts such as Howell Mountain Elementary and Pope Valley Union Elementary, the presence of homeless students represents a disproportionately vulnerable subgroup relative to total enrollment.

Students experiencing homelessness face heightened risks during disasters due to unstable housing conditions, limited access to transportation, and reduced capacity to prepare for or recover from emergency events. Those living in doubled-up situations may reside in overcrowded housing, which can complicate evacuation and sheltering. Students in hotels, motels, or unsheltered conditions are particularly exposed to environmental hazards and may have limited access to timely emergency information or services.

In addition, disruptions to school services during disasters can have amplified impacts on homeless students, who often rely on schools for meals, counseling, stability, and access to supportive services. Loss of continuity in education and support systems can further exacerbate existing inequities and delay recovery.

These conditions underscore the importance of integrating housing instability and dependent population needs into hazard mitigation planning. Targeted strategies, such as coordination with social services, CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-16
inclusive evacuation planning, and continuity of educational and support services, are essential to reducing risk and improving outcomes for vulnerable student populations.

Table 9-4: Student Homeless Counts by District
District/Agency
Name
Cumulative
Enrollment
Homeless
Student
Enrollment
Temporarily
Doubled-Up
Temporary
Shelters Hotels/Motels TemporarilyUnsheltered
Calistoga Joint
Unified 806 16 100.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Howell Mountain
Elementary 88 17 100.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Napa County
Office of
Education
185 20 100.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Napa Valley
Unified 16,519 749 79.6% 7.2% 11.5% 1.7%
Pope Valley
Union
Elementary
48 4 100.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0%
Saint Helena
Unified 1,130 26 76.9% 11.5% 0.0% 11.5%
Napa County 18,776 832 80.9% 6.9% 10.3% 1.9%
Statewide 5,227,466 272,500 84.7% 6.2% 5.5% 3.6%

9.2.5 Race, Ethnicity & Language
The Napa County Office of Education is a countywide agency that provides very specific education and supervision services. Moreover, its service population changes each academic year. Hence, providing a traditional assessment of demographics and vulnerable populations using American Community Survey data would not provide meaningful insight into the Office of Education’s service population. Volume 1 provides the demographic characteristics of Napa County as a whole.

Natural disasters compound racial disparities; non-white individuals and communities receive less recovery aid from FEMA than their white counterparts, even where the amount of damage is the same. (Howell, Junia; Elliott, James R., 2019) (National Advisory Council, 2020) These disparities are evidence of the complicated relationship between disaster recovery and overlapping social vulnerabilities including race, income, language, and health. Black and Latino residents are more likely to be low income and renters, conditions which create barriers to navigating FEMA’s Individual Assistance programs. Communities with more non-white residents may have lower tax revenue and property values, which means less investment in mitigation and rebuilding efforts before and after an emergency.

Table 9-5 illustrates the racial and ethnic composition of the student population served by the Napa County Office of Education and its partner school districts. Consistent with countywide trends, the data indicate CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-17
that the school population is diverse, with no single racial or ethnic group exclusively representing all districts. However, Hispanic or Latino students comprise the majority across most districts, accounting for approximately 59.6%g of total enrollment countywide. This is particularly evident in districts such as Calistoga Joint Unified and Pope Valley Union Elementary, where Hispanic or Latino students represent a substantial majority of the student population.

White students represent the second largest group at approximately 24.8% countywide, with higher concentrations in districts such as St. Helena Unified and Howell Mountain Elementary. Smaller proportions of Asian, Filipino, African American, Pacific Islander, and multiracial students are distributed across districts, contributing to the overall diversity of the school system. Napa Valley Unified School District, which serves the largest share of students, reflects this diversity with representation across all racial and ethnic categories.

In addition to racial and ethnic diversity, English language proficiency is a critical factor in assessing vulnerability. As shown in Table 9-6, approximately 22.3% of students countywide are classified as English Learners (EL), with an additional 18.6% identified as Reclassified Fluent English Proficient (RFEP). Certain districts, such as Pope Valley Union Elementary and Calistoga Joint Unified, have particularly high proportions of English Learners, exceeding 25% of total enrollment. These populations may face increased challenges in accessing emergency information, understanding preparedness resources, and navigating disaster recovery processes.

Students with limited English proficiency, along with younger populations requiring supervision and assistance, represent a key vulnerable group in hazard mitigation planning. The concentration of these populations within school facilities during daytime hours underscores the importance of targeted communication strategies, multilingual outreach, and coordinated emergency planning across all districts served by the Napa County Office of Education. This approach is consistent with FEMA guidance requiring the identification of socially vulnerable populations and consideration of access and functional needs within the risk assessment process.

Table 9-5: Student Ethnicity by District
District/Agency
Name Total
African
American
American Indian
or Alaska Native Asian Filipino
Hispanic
or Latino
Pacific
Islander White
Two
or
More
Races
Not
Reported
Calistoga
Joint Unified
768 0.5% 0.0% 0.4% 0.5% 87.5% 0.1% 8.3% 0.5% 2.1%
Howell
Mountain
Elementary
85 0.0% 3.5% 0.0% 0.0% 56.5% 1.2% 32.9% 4.7% 1.2%
Napa County
Office of
Education
200 1.0% 0.0% 0.5% 0.0% 70.5% 0.0% 27.0% 1.0% 0.0%
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-18
District/Agency
Name Total
African
American
American Indian
or Alaska Native Asian Filipino
Hispanic
or Latino
Pacific
Islander White
Two
or
More
Races
Not
Reported
Napa Valley
Unified
16,381 2.4% 0.1% 2.8% 6.5% 58.6% 0.2% 24.2% 5.1% 0.1%
Pope Valley
Union
Elementary
46 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 76.1% 0.0% 23.9% 0.0% 0.0%
Saint Helena
Unified
1,105 0.7% 0.2% 1.4% 0.1% 52.1% 0.4% 43.5% 1.4% 0.1%
Napa County 18,585 2.2% 0.2% 2.5% 5.7% 59.6% 0.2% 24.8% 4.6% 0.2% Statewide 5,806,221 4.9% 0.4% 10.1% 2.2% 56.1% 0.4% 20.0% 4.8% 1.2% Source: Source: Data Quest (2024-25 Enrollment)
Table 9-6: ELAS Learners by District
Name Total
English
Only (EO)
Initial Fluent
English
Proficient
(IFEP)
English
Learner (EL)
Reclassified
Fluent English
Proficient
(RFEP)
To Be
Determined
(TBD)
Calistoga Joint Unified 768 19.8% 3.9% 26.4% 47.7% 2.2% Howell Mountain
Elementary
85 60.0% 1.2% 24.7% 11.8% 2.4%
Napa County Office of
Education
200 48.5% 3.0% 30.5% 18.0% 0.0%
Napa Valley Unified 16,381 55.0% 4.1% 22.6% 17.0% 1.3%
Pope Valley Union
Elementary
46 30.4% 4.3% 52.2% 13.0% 0.0%
Saint Helena Unified 1,105 55.5% 7.7% 12.6% 23.2% 1.1%
Napa County 18,585 53.4% 4.3% 22.3% 18.6% 1.3%
State 5,806,221 61.0% 4.6% 17.4% 15.7% 1.1%
Source: Source: Data Quest (2024-25 Enrollment)

9.2.6 Social Vulnerability Index (SVI)
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Social Vulnerability Index (SVI) for the NCOE and additional school districts reveals important spatial and demographic patterns that have direct implications for equitable hazard mitigation planning. As discussed in detail in Volume 1, Section 1.4.3.6, the SVI is a composite measure developed by the CDC to identify communities that are more likely to require support before, during, and after a disaster. It incorporates a range of factors across four key dimensions:
socioeconomic status, household composition and disability, minority status and language, and housing CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-19
type and transportation access. The resulting index score ranges from 0 (lowest vulnerability) to 1 (highest vulnerability).

The Napa County Office of Education is a countywide agency that provides very specific education and supervision services. Moreover, its service population changes each academic year. Hence, providing a traditional assessment of demographics and vulnerable populations using American Community Survey data would not provide meaningful insight into the Office of Education’s service population.

Volume 1 provides a summary of Napa County’s SVI as a whole.

9.2.7 Economy
The Napa County Office of Education is a countywide agency that provides very specific education and supervision services. The Office of Education does not directly regulate economic activities through regulation of development or land use activities. It also does not indirectly regulate economic activities through natural resource management or provision of utilities.

Volume 1 provides a summary of Napa County’s economy as a whole.

9.2.8 Growth Trends & Future Development
NCOE is a countywide agency that provides specialized educational programs, student support services, and administrative oversight to school districts throughout Napa County. NCOE does not have authority over land use planning, zoning, or development regulation, nor does it influence development through infrastructure provision or natural resource management. As such, growth patterns and land use changes are governed by local jurisdictions and are addressed comprehensively in Volume 1 of this plan.

Although NCOE does not regulate development, student enrollment trends provide an important indicator of population shifts and service demand across the county. As shown in Table 9-7, total student enrollment has declined over the past decade, decreasing from 21,002 students in the 2014–15 academic year to 18,585 students in 2024–25, an overall reduction of approximately 11.5%. The most notable declines occurred between 2019–20 and 2022–23, with enrollment dropping from 20,022 to 18,625 students. In recent years, enrollment has begun to stabilize, with a slight increase observed between 2023–24 and 2024–25.

The data also indicate a shift in the composition of enrollment, with charter school participation declining from approximately 6.3–6.6% in earlier years to 2.2% in 2024–25, while non-charter school enrollment has correspondingly increased. These trends suggest changes in educational preferences and service delivery models within the county.

Overall, while NCOE does not directly influence physical development patterns, enrollment trends reflect broader demographic and socioeconomic changes that are relevant to hazard mitigation planning.

Declining and stabilizing student populations may influence facility utilization, transportation needs, and the distribution of services, all of which are important considerations for emergency planning, resource allocation, and long-term resilience.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-20
Volume 1 provides an assessment of growth trends and future development in Napa County as a whole.

Table 9-7: Student Enrollment from 2015 to 2025 (All Districts) Academic Year
Charter School
Enrollment
Non-Charter School
Enrollment Total Enrollment
2024-25 2.2% 97.8% 18,585
2023-24 1.9% 98.1% 18,572
2022-23 1.4% 98.6% 18,625
2021-22 1.4% 98.6% 19,012
2020-21 1.4% 98.6% 19,538
2019-20 4.6% 95.4% 20,022
2018-19 6.5% 93.5% 20,215
2017-18 6.6% 93.4% 20,402
2016-17 6.5% 93.5% 20,562
2015-16 6.4% 93.6% 20,817
2014-15 6.3% 93.7% 21,002
Source: Source: Data Quest (2024-25 Enrollment)

9.3 Planning Process
The Napa County Office of Education followed the planning process detailed in Volume 1, Section 2, including participating in the county-wide Hazard Mitigation Planning Team (HMPT) and formulating their own internal planning team to support the broader planning process.

The Napa County Office of Education’s representatives in the Steering Group led stakeholder and public engagement efforts alongside the Consultant Team, with assistance from the county-wide HMPT and their internal planning team. This engagement process is described in Volume 1. Specifically, for the Napa County Office of Education, this included postings to the city website and social media, and outreach events, as documented in Appendix B. Examples of Key Stakeholders engaged by Napa County on behalf of the city with relevance to the development of Napa County Office of Education’s mitigation strategy include the USDA and other federal agencies; CAL FIRE and other state agencies; other jurisdictions; community-based organizations such as local Chamber of Commerce chapters; utility providers like PG&E; UC Davis and other academia; and local businesses.

All Key Stakeholders that were invited to participate in the planning process are listed in Volume 1, Section 2, and the input received from stakeholders was integrated into the offices’s annex, as described in Volume 1 Table 2-9. The office’s internal planning team participants, their positions, and how they participated in the planning process are shown in Table 9-8.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-21
Table 9-8: NCOE Planning Team and Steering Group Members Team Members Title Description of Involvement
Joshua Schultz Deputy Superintendent Lead Point-of-Contact, HMPT #1, and #2, BO #1 and #2 Angel Hernandez OES Officer Alternate Point-of-Contact, HMPT #4 Jeremy Smith Participating Stakeholder, BO #1
Julie McClure Deputy Superintendent Participating Stakeholder, BO #1 Seana Wagner
Communications and Special
Projects Director
Participating Stakeholder, BO #1
The Napa County Office of Education participated in a comprehensive hazard mitigation planning process as part of the 2026 Napa County MJHMP update. This included a series of breakout meetings, listed in Table 9-9 that engaged the district’s planning team, which included key city personnel and stakeholders in evaluating hazards, identifying local vulnerabilities, and prioritizing mitigation strategies.

The process began with a County-Wide Steering Group Kickoff Meeting on February 28, 2024. This initial meeting focused on welcoming participants, establishing a shared understanding of the project scope and schedule, clarifying roles and responsibilities of the Steering Group, the county-wide Hazard Mitigation Planning Team (HMPT), and individual jurisdictional planning teams, and included a review of key changes since the 2020 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan The meeting set the foundation for coordinated participation throughout the planning effort.

On December 10, 2025, participants engaged in a hexagon mapping activity designed to visually identify mitigation actions that could benefit from or require inter-jurisdictional coordination. These collaborative efforts helped shape a refined set of mitigation alternatives, establish shared planning goals, and align local strategies with FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) funding framework.

Throughout the series of breakout meetings, the Napa County Office of Education engaged in a structured and collaborative planning process focused on assessing hazard risks, identifying vulnerabilities, and developing targeted mitigation strategies. The meetings began with recaps of the county-wide HMPT meetings to ensure alignment of goals and progress.

During the August 30, 2024, breakout out meeting, discussions concentrated on community engagement outcomes, initial risk assessments, and the integration of demographic data to better understand vulnerable populations. Jurisdictional teams reviewed their specific hazard exposures using the Risk Assessment Mapping Platform (RAMP) and participated in prioritization exercises to identify their top hazards.

The May 9, 2025, breakout meeting shifted toward reviewing local capabilities and defining specific areas of concern, which informed the drafting of problem statements. Teams worked collaboratively to refine CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-22
mitigation alternatives, align actions with FEMA guidelines, and develop a shortlist of priority mitigation actions and inter-jurisdictional collaboration opportunities.

The meetings also included consensus-building activities around hazard rankings, capabilities, and planned actions, while providing regular updates on the overall project schedule.

Table 9-9: NCOE Planning Team Meetings
Meeting & Date Agenda / Topics Goals / Key Inputs
County-Wide Steering Group and HMPT Kick-off and Meetings #1 & #2 February 28, 2024– July 18, 2024
Napa County Office of
Education Planning
Team
Breakout Meeting #1
August 30, 2024
▪ County-wide HMPT meetings #1 and #2 recaps
▪ Community engagement progress and results
▪ Risk assessment and community vulnerability
▪ Demographics and vulnerable populations
▪ Overview of jurisdiction-specific hazard risks and
exposure
▪ Introduction to Risk Assessment Mapping Platform
(RAMP)
▪ Jurisdiction-specific hazard risk ranking exercise
▪ Project schedule updates and next steps
▪ Consensus on jurisdictionspecific priority hazards
▪ Identify capabilities and
potential mitigation actions
▪ Community engagement
volunteers
County-Wide HMPT Meeting #3
March 25, 2025
Napa County Office of
Education Planning
Team
Breakout Meeting #2
May 9, 2025
▪ Breakout Meeting #1 and HMPT #3 recaps
▪ Review capabilities assessment
▪ Review areas of concern and define problem
statements
▪ Principles of effective mitigation strategies and
actions, and mitigation alternatives
▪ Refine and align jurisdiction-specific mitigation
actions exercise
▪ Project schedule updates and next steps
▪ Consensus on jurisdictionspecific capabilities
▪ Consensus on jurisdictionspecific areas of concern
▪ Consensus on priority
mitigation actions and
collaboration opportunities
▪ Community engagement
volunteers
County-Wide HMPT Meeting #4
December 10, 2025

9.3.1 Public Input & Draft Review
As detailed in Volume 1, Section 2, the draft plan was available for public review and comment from May 15 to June 2, 2026. Public comments received during that time were similar to those gathered throughout the public engagement process, including the need for more equity in the distribution of mitigation activities and funding and the need for enhanced cooperation among jurisdictions, utility providers, and state agencies. These comments were incorporated into the office’s mitigation strategy, as appropriate; although, most were already addressed by the Mitigation Action Plan which was based on previous public input.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-23
Public and stakeholder input was gathered and incorporated throughout the plan development process, before the public review period, such as from the online public survey (see Volume 1, Section 2.1.2 and Appendix B, for details). During the review period, jurisdictional staff and stakeholders that participated in the plan development also reviewed the public draft and provided comments on minor corrections and revisions, which were addressed in the final plan.

9.4 What’s New
This section provides an overview of hazard mitigation planning efforts for the planning area and highlights the updates made in the 2026 MJHMP. The Napa County Office of Education previously participated and maintained a Hazard Mitigation Plan, which guided resilience planning and hazard mitigation actions at the office level. The Napa County Office of Education is updating their current plan on a county wide level.

This integration reflects the office’s ongoing commitment to regional resilience and acknowledges that many hazards such as flooding, severe storms, and earthquakes cross jurisdictional boundaries.

Through participation in the MJHMP, the Napa County Office of Education has identified its highest priority hazards, developed hazard specific problem statements, and proposed actionable strategies to reduce risks.

By aligning with countywide partners and leveraging regional resources, the Napa County Office of Education has strengthened its capacity to prepare for, withstand, and recover from disasters while continuing to protect its unique community character.

9.4.1 Mitigation Activities
The Napa County Office of Education has successfully implemented several initiatives aimed at addressing identified vulnerabilities. Some of these accomplishments are highlighted in this section and have directly contributed to reducing risks from hazards such as flooding, all hazards, and severe weather. These completed projects showcase the Napa County Office of Education’s ability to effectively plan, fund, and execute measures that protect its residents and infrastructure.

In addition, the Napa County Office of Education has systematically reviewed and adjusted its mitigation actions, exemplifying adherence to FEMA’s Planning Policy Guide principles and emphasizing the importance of dynamic and adaptive mitigation planning. By fostering partnerships, leveraging funding opportunities, and prioritizing equity in implementation, the office aligns with best practices to build resilience against natural disasters. This ongoing effort is a testament to the offices's commitment to the principles of risk-informed decision-making, equitable resource allocation, and integration with broader regional and state hazard mitigation objectives.

Adjustments to Previous Mitigation Actions
A significant portion of the office’s mitigation efforts remain ongoing or in the pipeline. These actions, ranging from infrastructure upgrades to community outreach initiatives, represent the office’s proactive approach to addressing hazards as resources become available.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-24
Recognizing constraints such as limited funding, staffing, and shifting priorities, the office has reevaluated certain initiatives, leading to their reprioritization or canceling of mitigation actions. Factors such as feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and emerging risks informed these decisions, ensuring alignment with the office’s updated hazard mitigation goals. Adjustments to previous mitigation actions are documented as part of the Napa County Office of Education’s Mitigation Action Plan Table 9-17, and more specific status updates are provided in Table 9-18.

9.4.2 Mitigation Successes
NCOE has taken a proactive and locally driven approach to hazard mitigation, implementing a variety of projects that enhance campus resilience without reliance on FEMA grant funding. Through strategic capital improvements, facility upgrades, and partnerships with technical experts, the office and school districts have advanced meaningful risk reduction measures that address its most pressing hazards, particularly earthquakes, flooding, and infrastructure vulnerabilities.

These efforts reflect the office’s ability to integrate mitigation into routine planning, maintenance, and capital investment decisions. By leveraging institutional resources, state funding programs, and internal expertise, the office and the Napa County school districtsa have demonstrated that effective mitigation can be achieved through sustained commitment and thoughtful planning. The following success stories highlight innovative and impactful actions that have strengthened the safety, reliability, and long-term resilience of campus facilities and operations.

Schools for Climate Action
The Napa Valley Unified School District (NVUSD) has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to climate resilience and hazard mitigation through continued participation in climate action and sustainability initiatives. Building on studentled efforts and community engagement, the District has supported programs that promote energy efficiency, environmental stewardship, and climate awareness across school campuses. These efforts contribute to reducing long-term risks associated with hazards such as extreme heat, wildfire smoke, and energy disruptions, while also strengthening the capacity of students and staff to understand and respond to changing environmental conditions.

NVUSD’s approach emphasizes integrating mitigation into both educational programming and operational practices, including promoting sustainable campus improvements and fostering climate literacy among students. These ongoing efforts reflect a proactive strategy to address climate-related risks and support community resilience over time.

As a formal step in this commitment, the NVUSD Board of Education adopted a climate action resolution in May 2019, recognizing the importance of addressing climate change and establishing a framework for continued action.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-25

9.5 Risk Assessment
This section focuses on profiling hazards specific to the Napa County Office of Education and assessing their vulnerability independent of the broader county-wide planning area, which has been evaluated in Section 3 of Volume 1. The hazard profiles in Volume 1 discuss overall impacts to the planning area and describe relevant plans, policies, and regulations; past events; location; frequency and probability of future occurrences; severity and extent; warning time; secondary hazards; and climate change impacts. For more information on risk assessment methodologies, see Volume 1, Appendix A.

This section includes a tailored vulnerability assessment, analyzing assets at risk such as population, property, and critical facilities and infrastructure unique to the office, and information on office-specific differences in hazard vulnerability across the planning area. It also identifies total office assets at risk, including people, property, and critical facilities and infrastructure within the office’s jurisidiction. In addition, this section presents growth and development trends for the community, offering insights into vulnerabilities and risks that represent the broader context of assets at risk.

9.5.1 Hazard Screening & Prioritization
Members of the Planning Team from each participating jurisdiction came together to collaboratively decide which county-wide hazards would be included in the MJHMP, and which would be excluded. Hazard screening and prioritization took place early in the process and integrated historic data, local knowledge, and consensus opinions to create a risk assessment matrix for the office as well as for each participating jurisdiction. These matrices indicate the priority of hazards prior to further refinement. Details about this process, the results of the discussion, and in-depth profiles for county-wide hazards can be found in Volume 1, Sections 2 and 3.

The Napa County Office of Education’s internal planning group used the same hazard identification and prioritization process as the county-wide Planning Team. They reviewed previously prepared hazard mitigation plans and other relevant documents to determine the realm of natural hazards that have the potential to affect the city. Table 9-10 provides a crosswalk of hazards identified in select planning documents, including the 2020 Napa County MJHMP and the 2023 State of California HMP. The crosswalk was used to develop a preliminary hazards list, providing a framework for the group to evaluate which hazards were truly relevant to the Napa County Office of Education and which ones were not.

The internal planning group then ranked hazards based on their probability of affecting the Napa County Office of Education and potential impacts on the community. Figure 9-2 displays the results of the hazard risk ranking exercise that was performed before further refinement. All hazards have been profiled in Volume 1 of this document. The purpose of this annex is to specifically address the office’s vulnerability to specifically identified hazards.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-26
Table 9-10: NCOE Document Review of Potential Hazards
Hazard 2020 Napa County
MJHMP Plan 2023 CaliforniaSHMP
Agricultural Pests ■ ■
Avalanche ■
Climate Change ■ ■ ■
Coastal ■
Dam Failure ■ ■
Drought ■ ■ ■
Earthquake / Liquefaction ■ ■ ■
Extreme Cold ■
Extreme Heat ■ ■
Extreme Weather / Storms ■ ■ ■
Flood ■ ■ ■
Geologic / Mass Movement ■ ■ ■
Human-Caused ■
Insects ■
Levee Failure ■
Pandemic Disease ■ ■
Sea Level Rise ■
Soil ■
Subsidence ■
Tornado ■
Tsunami / Seiche Wave ■
Volcano ■
Wildfire ■ ■ ■
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-27
Figure 9-2: NCOE Risk Assessment Matrix
Note: Hazard naming in the Risk Assessment Matrix may not match the final naming used. Refer to hazards prioritization summary table.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-28
Priority Hazards
The results of the initial risk ranking exercise completed by the office’s Planning Team, before further refinement, are identified in the county’s completed matrix in Figure 9-2. Table 9-11 provides the final list of priority hazards and subhazards with additional details about why certain hazards were chosen and why others were not prioritized. However, it should be noted that many hazards not prioritized for profiling are briefly discussed as secondary or compounding hazards, and subhazards that were profiled and included in the risk assessment are listed specifically.

Table 9-11: NCOE Hazards Prioritization Summary
Hazard Priority Explanation
Earthquake / Liquefaction High Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.4, and Section 9.5.2.2 in this annex (not including Liquefaction due to low probability and impact potential) Wildfire High Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.1, and Section 9.5.2.1 in this annex Flood Medium Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.2, and Section 9.5.2.3 in this annex Levee Failure -
Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.2; not a priority due to low probability and impact potential
Extreme Weather / Storms High
Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.5, and Section 9.5.2.5 in this annex as Severe Weather, including High Wind and Heavy Rain (Winter Weather not a priority due to low probability and impact potential) Drought High Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.6, and Section 9.5.2.4 in this annex Geologic / Mass Movement -
Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.5; not a priority due to low probability and impact potential
Extreme Heat Medium Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.8, and Section 9.5.2.6 in this annex Agricultural Pests -
Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.9; not a priority due to being outside jurisdictional mission and authority
Sea Level Rise -
Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.9; not a priority due to low probability and impact potential
Climate Change Medium Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.9, and Section 9.5.2.7 in this annex and discussed as a compounding hazard in relevant profiles
Dam Failure -
Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.3; not a priority due to low probability and impact potential
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-29

9.5.2 Vulnerability to Specific Hazards
Assessing vulnerabilities exposes the unique characteristics of individual hazards and begins the process of narrowing down which areas within the office are vulnerable to specific hazard events. The vulnerability assessment considered unique local knowledge of hazards and impacts and a GIS overlaying method for examining such vulnerabilities in more depth. Using these methods, the office’s planning group estimated vulnerable populations, properties, and assets, and potential losses. In addition, the exposure of office assets to drought, geological, earthquake, wildfire and flood hazards were also considered.

Many of the hazard profiles include a snapshot map and damage estimation tables that illustrate the office’s vulnerabilities to those specific hazards. These maps assisted the planning group in understanding the hazard exposure of populations, parcels, and critical facilities and infrastructure. Each snapshot map contains an exposure summary that displays the percentage of the population, the improvement and content value of parcels, and the amount of critical infrastructure that is exposed. For hazards without geospatial extents, such as drought and severe weather, narratives are provided instead of exposure maps and tables.

Based on the hazard prioritization exercise, this vulnerability assessment focuses on seven hazards for the Napa County Office of Education, some of which encompass subhazards such as Heavy Rain Wildfire
SECTION 9.5.2.1
Earthquake
SECTION 9.5.2.2
Flood
SECTION 9.5.2.3
Drought
SECTION 9.5.2.4
Severe Weather
SECTION 9.5.2.5
Extreme Heat
SECTION 9.5.2.6
Climate Change
SECTION 9.5.2.7
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-30
Wildfire Hazard
School Districts are exposed to significant wildfire risk due to the geographic distribution of its facilities across Napa County, as shown in Figure 9-3 and summarized in Table 9-12. Unlike a single-campus institution, NCOE operates across multiple school sites embedded within different districts, many of which are located along the wildland–urban interface (WUI), particularly in northern and eastern portions of the county and in more rural areas such as Calistoga, Pope Valley, and St. Helena. These areas are characterized by grasslands, shrublands, and seasonal vegetation that can dry rapidly during summer and fall months, increasing susceptibility to fast-moving wildfires under extreme heat and wind conditions.

As illustrated in the jurisdiction overview map, NCOE-supported facilities are dispersed across multiple districts with varying wildfire exposure levels. Schools located in valley floor areas, such as those within Napa Valley Unified, generally experience lower direct wildfire exposure but remain vulnerable to secondary impacts. In contrast, facilities in more rural and vegetated regions—particularly within Calistoga Joint Unified, Pope Valley Union Elementary, and portions of St. Helena Unified—are more directly exposed to wildfire hazards, including flame front exposure, ember intrusion, and limited evacuation routes.

Wildfire exposure in Napa County is extensive, with large portions of the county falling within Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. This places school facilities, students, and staff at risk not only from direct fire impacts but also from cascading effects such as smoke exposure, public safety power shutoffs, transportation disruptions, and emergency evacuations. Given the distributed nature of NCOE facilities, evacuation and emergency response conditions may vary significantly by site, with some locations facing access constraints due to limited roadway connectivity or rural terrain.

NCOE serves a substantial daytime population distributed across these facilities, including students, educators, and staff—many of whom may require assistance during emergency events. Younger populations, individuals with access and functional needs, and students experiencing housing instability may be particularly vulnerable during wildfire incidents. Additionally, because many NCOE programs operate within shared or third-party facilities, coordination with host districts and local agencies is critical to ensure effective emergency planning and response.

A major wildfire event could result in temporary or prolonged closure of educational facilities, disruption to services, and displacement of students and staff. Impacts may include damage to buildings and infrastructure, degraded air quality affecting health and operations, and interruption of transportation and utility systems. Even in areas not directly impacted by fire, regional wildfire activity can necessitate school closures due to smoke conditions or precautionary evacuations.

Climate change is expected to further exacerbate wildfire risk in Napa County by contributing to higher temperatures, prolonged dry periods, and more frequent extreme weather conditions. These trends increase the likelihood of large, high-intensity wildfires and extend the duration of the wildfire season. As a result, continued coordination, preparedness planning, and integration of wildfire risk considerations into operational decision-making are essential to reducing vulnerability and ensuring the safety and continuity of educational services across NCOE-supported facilities.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-31
Figure 9-3: NCOE Wildfire Risk
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-32
Table 9-12: NCOE Facility Wildfire Exposure
Critical Infrastructure - Wildfire Severity Zone
Infrastructure Type SRA Very
High
LRA Very
High
Very High
Total
SRA
High LRA High High Total
SRA
Moderate
LRA
Moderate
Moderate
Total
Public School 2 - 2 5 3 8 2 2 4
Real Property Asset - - - 1 - 1 - - -
Grand Total 2 - 2 6 3 9 2 2 4
*Real Property Assets are digitized insurance rolls for demonstrating value and ownership and may have overlapping points with other categories such as fire stations and law enforcement.

Earthquake Hazard
NCOE and associated school districts are exposed to significant earthquake risk due to the location of its facilities across Napa County, a region influenced by multiple fault systems, including those associated with the 2014 South Napa earthquake. Because NCOE operates a distributed network of schools and program sites rather than a single campus, seismic risk varies by location but remains a countywide concern. Scenario modeling, including the Hunting Creek–Berryessa M7.1 and West Napa M6.7 events, provides a representative understanding of potential impacts to NCOE-supported facilities.

Under the Hunting Creek–Berryessa M7.1 scenario (Figure 9-4), much of Napa County experiences Moderate to Strong ground shaking (MMI V–VI), with areas of Strong shaking (MMI VI) extending across the valley floor where many school facilities are concentrated. Northern and more rural areas, including portions of Pope Valley and St. Helena Unified, experience slightly lower shaking intensities (MMI IV–V), though still sufficient to cause light to moderate damage. While this scenario produces widespread but somewhat lowerintensity impacts compared to more localized events, the distributed nature of NCOE facilities means that nearly all sites would experience some level of operational disruption.

The West Napa M6.7 scenario (Figure 9-5) represents a more consequential event for NCOE due to its proximity to the Napa Valley population center, where the highest concentration of schools and students is located. Under this scenario, much of the valley floor—including areas served by Napa Valley Unified School District—experiences Strong to Very Strong shaking (MMI VI–VII), with localized areas approaching Severe shaking (MMI VIII). This level of ground motion is capable of causing moderate to significant damage to buildings, particularly older structures or those not designed to current seismic standards. Because a large portion of NCOE’s student and staff population is concentrated in this area, this scenario presents the greatest risk to life safety and continuity of operations.

NCOE facilities include a mix of building types, ages, and construction standards, many of which are owned and maintained by partner districts. While newer facilities are designed in accordance with modern seismic CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-33
codes, older buildings may be more vulnerable to structural damage, nonstructural failures (e.g., ceilings, equipment, utilities), and functional disruption. Variations in local soil conditions across Napa County may also influence shaking intensity and damage potential at specific sites.

A major earthquake could result in injuries, damage to educational facilities, and prolonged disruption of services. Potential impacts include loss of classroom space, damage to equipment and infrastructure, and interruption of critical lifelines such as water, power, and communications. Disruptions to transportation networks may further limit access to school sites, complicating emergency response and reunification efforts.

Because NCOE serves a large and dispersed daytime population, including students, educators, and staff, many individuals may require assistance during emergency situations. Children, individuals with access and functional needs, and transient program participants may be particularly vulnerable during evacuation or sheltering operations. The distributed nature of facilities further increases the importance of consistent emergency planning, training, and coordination across multiple jurisdictions.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-34
Figure 9-4: NCOE Earthquake Risk (M7.1 Hunting Creek Berryessa) CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-35
Figure 9-5: NCOE Earthquake Risk (M6.7 West Napa)
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-36
Flood Hazard
Flooding presents a significant hazard for the Napa County Office of Education (NCOE) due to the geographic distribution of its facilities along the Napa Valley floor and in proximity to the Napa River and downstream bayfront areas. As shown in Figure 9-6, flood-prone areas are primarily concentrated along the Napa River corridor, extending from northern Napa County through the City of Napa and into the low-lying areas near San Pablo Bay. These areas are subject to riverine flooding, localized drainage flooding, and backwater effects influenced by tidal conditions and storm events.

The FEMA Flood Risk Exposure map indicates that several NCOE-supported school facilities—particularly those within Napa Valley Unified School District—are located near or within mapped 100-year (1-% annual chance) and 500-year (0.2-% annual chance) flood hazard zones. Additional areas of concern include designated floodways and levee-protected zones, where flood risk may increase if levee systems are overtopped or fail during extreme events. Facilities located outside of the primary floodplain, such as those in Calistoga Joint Unified, Howell Mountain Elementary, and Pope Valley Union Elementary districts, generally face lower direct flood exposure but may still be affected by localized runoff, roadway flooding, or access constraints.

Flood hazards in Napa County are driven by a combination of intense precipitation, watershed runoff, and tidal influences, particularly when storm events coincide with high water levels in San Pablo Bay. These conditions can overwhelm drainage systems and lead to rapid inundation of low-lying areas. School facilities located in these areas may experience temporary flooding of buildings, parking areas, and access roads, potentially disrupting operations and requiring evacuation or closure.

For NCOE, the distributed nature of facilities increases the complexity of flood risk management. While not all school sites are directly exposed to flooding, many rely on transportation corridors and utility systems that intersect flood-prone areas. As a result, even facilities outside mapped flood zones may experience indirect impacts, including impaired access for students and staff, delayed emergency response, and interruptions to critical services such as power, water, and communications.

Flooding can result in structural damage, mold and water intrusion, and degradation of building systems, as well as impacts to outdoor facilities and equipment. Repetitive or prolonged flooding may also affect long-term facility usability and increase maintenance costs. Secondary impacts include erosion, sediment deposition, and strain on stormwater infrastructure.

National Flood Insurance Program
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) makes federally backed flood insurance available to homeowners, renters, and business owners in participating communities. FEMA has prepared a detailed Flood Insurance Study (FIS) for Napa County and municipalities. The study presents water surface elevations for floods of various magnitudes, including the 1% annual chance flood (100-YR flood) and the

0.2% annual chance flood (500-YR flood). Base flood elevations and the boundaries of the 100- and 500-YR floodplains are shown on Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), which are the principal tools for identifying CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-37
the extent and location of the flood hazard. FIRMs are the most detailed and consistent data source available, and for many communities they represent the minimum area of oversight under their floodplain management program. See Section 4 of Volume 1 for general information on the NFIP.

The Napa County Office of Education is not a county or a municipality and, thus, is not eligible to participate in NFIP. Volume 1 describes Napa County’s participation in NFIP.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-38
Figure 9-6: NCOE Flood Risk
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-39
Drought Hazard
The National Drought Monitor provides drought data and maps nationally and on a localized, watershed scale. The National Drought Monitor is the product of 11 agencies, including the NDMC, NOAA and USDA, and is available at http://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/. The National Drought Monitor categorizes the level of drought from D0 through D4, with D4 being the highest “exceptional drought.” Table 9-13 depicts drought classifications and impacts from the level of drought occurrence in California, while Figure 9-7 shows a time series of the level of drought in Napa County from 2000 to 2025 according to the National Drought Monitor.

Drought is a recurring and long-term hazard affecting the NCOE and its associated school districts due to the region’s Mediterranean climate, characterized by highly seasonal precipitation and extended dry periods. Prolonged intervals of below-average rainfall, reduced snowpack in California’s primary water supply regions, and elevated temperatures can strain regional water availability and affect school operations across Napa County. While drought does not typically cause immediate physical damage to school facilities, its cumulative effects can be significant and prolonged, particularly for a distributed system of educational sites.

NCOE and its partner districts rely on local and regional water systems that are sensitive to drought conditions. Extended dry periods can reduce available water supplies, increase demand during hotter conditions, and place stress on water delivery infrastructure. In response, water conservation measures are often implemented, which may affect campus landscaping, irrigation, and facility operations. Schools may be required to modify maintenance practices and operational procedures to comply with regional water use restrictions while maintaining safe and functional learning environments.

Drought conditions can also exacerbate other hazards affecting NCOE facilities. Prolonged dry periods contribute to increased wildfire risk, particularly for schools located near WUI areas in northern and rural portions of the county. Dry soils and vegetation can also contribute to erosion and reduced slope stability, especially when drought conditions are followed by intense precipitation events. Additionally, degradation of natural systems, including riparian corridors along the Napa River, may reduce natural flood attenuation capacity, indirectly increasing flood risk in downstream areas where many school facilities are located.

Climate change is expected to increase the frequency, duration, and severity of drought conditions in California, with longer dry periods and more variable precipitation patterns. These trends create ongoing uncertainty in water supply reliability and reinforce the importance of water conservation, interagency coordination, and sustainable operational practices across NCOE and its partner school districts. Consistent with FEMA mitigation planning principles, integrating drought resilience into facility management and long-term planning efforts is essential to maintaining continuity of educational services and reducing future risk.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-40
Table 9-13: Drought Classifications and Impacts
Category Description Possible Impacts
D0
Abnormally
Dry
▪ Soil is dry; irrigation delivery begins early
▪ Dryland crop germination is stunted
▪ Active fire season begins
D1
Moderate
Drought
▪ Dryland pasture growth is stunted; producers give supplemental feed to cattle ▪ Landscaping and gardens need irrigation earlier; wildlife patterns begin to change ▪ Stock ponds and creeks are lower than usual
D2
Severe
Drought
▪ Producers increase water efficiency methods and drought-resistant crops ▪ Grazing land inadequate
▪ Fire season is longer, with high burn intensity, dry fuels, and large fire spatial extent, more fire crews on staff
▪ Lake- and river-based tourism declines; boat ramps close ▪ Trees are stressed; plants increase reproductive mechanisms; wildlife diseases increase ▪ Water temperatures increase; programs to divert water to protect fish begin ▪ River flows decrease; reservoir levels are low and banks are exposed D3
Extreme
Drought
▪ Federal water is not adequate to meet irrigation contracts; extracting supplemental groundwater is expensive
▪ Fire season lasts year-round; fires occur in typically wet parts of the state; burn bans are implemented
▪ Ski and rafting business are low; mountain communities suffer ▪ Low water levels impede fish migration and cause lower survival rates ▪ Wildlife encroaches on developed areas; little native food and water is available for bears, which hibernate less
▪ Water sanitation is a concern; reservoir levels drop significantly; surface water is nearly dry; flows are very low; water theft occurs
▪ Livestock need supplemental feed, cattle and horses are sold; little pasture remains ▪ Well and aquifer levels decrease; homeowners drill new wells D4
Exceptional
Drought
▪ Fire season is very costly; number of fires and areas burned are extensive ▪ Many recreational activities are affected
▪ Fields are left fallow; orchards are removed; vegetable yields are low; honey harvest is small; agricultural unemployment is high, food aid is needed ▪ Fish rescue and relocation begin; pine beetle infestation occurs; forest mortality is high; wetlands dry up; wildlife death is widespread; algae blooms appear ▪ Poor air quality affects health: greenhouse gas emissions increase as hydropower production decreases; West Nile outbreaks rise
▪ Water shortages are widespread; surface water is depleted; federal irrigation water deliveries are curtailed; water prices are extremely high; wells are dry, more and deeper wells are drilled; water quality is poor
Source: Adapted from U.S. Drought Monitor Drought Classifications and Impacts CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-41
Figure 9-7: Drought Severity Timeline 2000-2025
Severe Weather Hazard
Although Napa County benefits from a Mediterranean climate with some moderating marine influence from San Pablo Bay, the Napa County Office of Education (NCOE) and its associated school districts remain vulnerable to a range of severe weather hazards, including high wind events, heavy rainfall, and winter storm systems. While these hazards may occur less frequently or with lower intensity than hazards such as wildfire or earthquake, they can still result in significant impacts to school facilities, operations, and the safety of students and staff across the county.

High Wind
High wind events are a recurring severe weather hazard affecting NCOE-supported facilities, particularly during winter storm systems and offshore wind conditions. Winds may be funneled through the Napa Valley and surrounding hills, producing localized gusts that can impact school campuses across districts including Napa Valley Unified, Calistoga Joint Unified, and St. Helena Unified. These events have the potential to damage buildings, disrupt school operations, and create safety hazards for students, faculty, and staff.

At school sites, high winds may result in downed trees, fallen branches, and windborne debris that can block access roads, parking areas, and pedestrian pathways. Damage to overhead utilities and nearby electrical infrastructure can lead to power outages, affecting classroom instruction, administrative functions, and critical systems such as communications and safety equipment. Outdoor facilities—including play areas, athletic fields, portable classrooms, and signage—may be particularly vulnerable to wind damage.

High winds can also exacerbate other hazards affecting NCOE facilities. During dry conditions, strong winds can increase wildfire risk in surrounding open space and wildland–urban interface areas by accelerating fire spread and transporting embers. In addition, falling debris and reduced visibility during wind events CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-42
may create hazardous conditions along key transportation corridors, potentially limiting emergency access or delaying evacuation efforts.

Although many school buildings are constructed in accordance with modern codes, vulnerabilities may exist in older facilities, roofing systems, and exterior components. The reliance on safe access, reliable utilities, and outdoor circulation areas highlights the importance of ongoing maintenance, vegetation management, and emergency preparedness across NCOE-supported sites.

Heavy Rain
NCOE and its partner school districts are also exposed to severe winter storm events that can produce heavy rainfall, localized flooding, and hazardous travel conditions. These storm systems are often associated with atmospheric river events that bring prolonged precipitation, increasing the risk of riverine flooding along the Napa River and its tributaries, as well as localized drainage issues in developed areas where many school facilities are located.

Heavy rainfall can lead to saturated soils, increasing the likelihood of localized slope instability, erosion, and debris flows, particularly in hillside areas where some school facilities and access routes are located.

Storm events may also include lightning, short-duration intense rainfall, and occasional hail, all of which can contribute to property damage and safety risks for students and staff.

Severe weather impacts often cascade across multiple systems. High winds and heavy rainfall are closely linked to power outages, transportation disruptions, and infrastructure impacts, which can affect school operations and emergency response. Downed trees, roadway flooding, and debris may block access routes, limiting mobility and complicating student transportation, evacuation, and reunification efforts.

As with other hazards, severe weather events may disproportionately affect vulnerable populations served by NCOE, including students with access and functional needs, low-income households, and those experiencing housing instability. These conditions underscore the importance of integrating severe weather considerations into emergency planning, infrastructure resilience, and coordinated response efforts across all districts.

Severe Weather & Climate Change
Severe weather events pose an increasing hazard for NCOE due to regional climate variability and longterm climate change trends affecting Northern California. Extreme weather includes periods of extreme heat, severe storms, high winds, and atmospheric river events, all of which can strain infrastructure, disrupt educational services, and threaten public safety.

Extreme heat is one of the most significant emerging threats. Increasing temperatures and more frequent heat waves elevate the risk of heat-related illness among students and staff, particularly vulnerable populations such as young children, individuals with health conditions, and those without access to adequate cooling. Extreme heat can also increase energy demand, potentially contributing to power outages CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-43
and stressing electrical systems relied upon by school facilities. In addition, prolonged heat events can worsen air quality and compound health risks during wildfire smoke events.

Climate projections indicate that Napa County will experience a substantial increase in extreme heat days and warm nights over time, reflecting broader climate change trends. Severe storms and atmospheric river events are also expected to intensify, producing heavier rainfall over shorter periods and increasing the risk of flooding, erosion, and infrastructure strain. High wind events may become more variable and severe, further compounding wildfire risk and infrastructure vulnerability.

Extreme Heat Hazard
Within Napa County, geographic patterns in extreme heat are mostly influenced by topography. Napa County’s climate is influenced by its location between mountain ranges and proximity to San Pablo Bay, which typically provides some moderation of temperature extremes. While extreme heat days are defined by localized variation from norms, the inland valley areas tend to experience higher temperatures than coastal or mountain areas. That being said, air conditioning systems are less prevalent in the county, including in older school buildings, and the population may be less adapted to higher temperatures compared to regions which regularly experience high heat events.

However, despite the marine and mountain influences present, the county is increasingly experiencing periods of elevated temperatures, particularly during late summer and early fall when offshore flow conditions reduce coastal cooling effects. In recent decades, Napa has seen an increase in the frequency, duration, and intensity of extreme heat events, a trend that is expected to continue under changing climate conditions. Statewide events, including those in 2017 and 2020, resulted in prolonged periods of high temperatures across inland portions of the Bay Area, including the Napa Valley. During these events, temperatures in Napa exceeded typical seasonal norms and, in some cases, approached or exceeded 100°F for multiple consecutive days.

Although Napa County is mostly rural, there are clusters of highly urbanized areas. Urbanized areas experience higher temperatures than natural landscapes, creating localized pockets of higher temperatures known as heat islands. Roads and conventional building materials reflect less solar energy and absorb and re-emit more heat compared to trees and other vegetation. Heat islands can build throughout the day and worsen immediately after sunset as heat is slowly released from pavement and building material. Urban heat islands disproportionately affect low-income urban populations and people of color, communities who are more likely to occupy older, higher density housing stock with lower urban forest cover and less access to air conditioning.

Napa’s valley setting contributes to heat retention, particularly during periods of high pressure and low wind, when warm air becomes trapped and nighttime cooling is limited. These conditions can result in extended heat events that persist over several days, increasing cumulative stress on residents, infrastructure, and natural systems. Unlike areas immediately adjacent to the Bay, portions of Napa experience more pronounced temperature extremes due to reduced marine influence and localized topographic effects.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-44
Climate projections indicate that the county is likely to experience a substantial increase in both the number of extreme heat days and warm nights over time. Extreme heat days, defined as those exceeding historically high temperature thresholds, are expected to become more frequent, while warm nights will reduce opportunities for overnight cooling, compounding heat-related stress on vulnerable populations.

According to Cal-Adapt, the county will likely experience a climate change-driven increase in extreme heat days from four days per year to 22 days per year by the end of the century under a medium emissions scenario (RCP 4.5). Over the same time period, the county is also likely to see an increase in warm nights from five per year to 39. Table 9-14 explains the extreme heat event thresholds for Napa County.

Table 9-14: Cal-Adapt Extreme Heat Terms and Thresholds Term Cal-Adapt Definition Thresholds for
Napa County
Extreme
Heat Day
Defined as a day in a year when the daily maximum/minimum temperature exceeds the 98th percentile of daily maximum/minimum temperatures based on observed historical data from 1961-1990 between April and October.

98.6°F
Warm Night
Defined as a day in April through October when daily minimum temperature exceeds the 98th historical percentile of daily minimum temperatures, based on observed data from 1961-1990 between April and October.

59.5°F
Heat Wave Defined as four consecutive days or nights above the extreme heat / warm night threshold.
3 days ≥ 98.6°F or
4 nights ≥ 59.5°F
Source: Cal-Adapt Extreme Heat Days and Warm Nights Tool Impacts on Students & Staff
Student and staff health risks are the most immediate concern, with vulnerable populations such as lowincome or homeless students or those who are medically fragile, at elevated risk of heat-related illnesses.

Among the county’s vulnerable populations, the children of agricultural workers or staff living in older homes without air conditioning may be more exposed to heat events than others if nighttime temperatures remain high. In addition, some older school buildings may lack adequate air conditioning to address climate change-driven temperature increases. Heat impacts students and staff physically and mentally, especially if they are further exposed to heat throughout the day or night, and can disrupt educational operations, cause sickness, or even death in extreme cases such as while exercising outdoors.

From an infrastructure perspective, heat waves stress the power grid, raising the likelihood of blackouts that can leave school and district buildings without cooling options. Prolonged extreme heat can also damage roads, rail, and utilities, as well as strain HVAC systems in schools and other critical facilities. Parks, athletic fields, and outdoor programs may face closures due to unsafe conditions, impacting community services and recreation.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-45
Cascading Effects
Extreme heat can contribute to and exacerbate other hazards within Napa County. Prolonged high temperatures dry vegetation and increase wildfire risk in surrounding areas, while also contributing to degraded air quality, particularly during regional wildfire events. Heat can also intensify drought conditions by increasing evaporation rates and water demand, placing additional stress on local water resources.

Climate Change Hazard
NCOE faces increasing exposure to climate-related hazards that influence both the frequency and severity of existing risks. Changes in temperature, precipitation patterns, and seasonal variability are expected to intensify hazards such as extreme heat, drought, flooding, wildfire, and severe storms that affect campus operations. Located within the Napa Valley, the College is subject to localized climate conditions shaped by valley topography, nearby waterways, and surrounding open space, all of which contribute to its sensitivity to climate variability. Understanding how these evolving conditions affect the campus is critical for informing long-term planning, infrastructure investment, and emergency preparedness.

Increased Annual Temperatures
Average annual temperatures across most of California have already increased by more than 1°F, with some areas experiencing rises of over 2°F when comparing the 1901–1960 average to that of 1986–2016. Daily maximum temperatures—a key indicator of extreme heat—are projected to increase by 4.4°F to 5.8°F by 2050 and by 5.6°F to 8.8°F by 2100. Heat waves that impact public health, known as heat-health events, are also expected to intensify across the state. By 2050, these events are projected to last up to two weeks longer in the Central Valley and occur four to ten times more often in the Northern Sierra region (California Natural Resources Agency, 2022).

California is already experiencing significant impacts from climate change, including prolonged drought, a lengthened wildfire season, increased coastal flooding and erosion, and widespread tree mortality. The state has observed rising average temperatures, more extreme heat days, fewer cold nights, a longer growing season, and shifts in the water cycle, with less winter precipitation falling as snow. In addition, summertime fog has declined by approximately 33%, and both snowmelt and rainwater runoff are occurring earlier in the year (Cal OES, 2018).

Long-term trends indicate a 12% to 20% decline in fog across California from 1900 through projections to 2070. Climate experts suggest that warming temperatures reduce the ability of air masses to cool enough to produce fog, which plays a critical role in supporting California’s ecosystems (Grantham, Teodore; University of California, Berkeley, 2018).

These statewide trends have localized implications for NCOE due to its position within the Napa Valley. The valley setting can intensify heat impacts by trapping warm air and limiting nighttime cooling, resulting in prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures. As extreme heat events increase in frequency and duration, the campus population, including students, faculty, and staff, may experience greater health and safety risks, particularly for those with limited access to cooling or who spend time outdoors. Increased CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-46
temperatures may also drive higher energy demand on campus, placing additional strain on electrical systems and increasing the potential for power disruptions.

Drought & Water Reliability
Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and duration of drought conditions affecting the NCOE and its associated school districts. NCOE-supported facilities rely on local and regional water systems that are sensitive to prolonged dry periods, which can reduce water availability and increase demand during hotter conditions. These impacts may necessitate the implementation of water conservation measures that affect school landscaping, irrigation, and facility operations across multiple campuses.

Drought conditions can also affect the broader school environment. Vegetation stress on school grounds and surrounding open space areas may increase maintenance needs and reduce tree canopy, contributing to higher localized temperatures on campuses. In addition, prolonged dry conditions may impact nearby riparian systems, including those associated with the Napa River, reducing their effectiveness in supporting ecosystem health and natural stormwater functions that benefit school communities.

Precipitation, Storms & Flooding
Climate projections indicate that precipitation is likely to occur in fewer but more intense storm events.

These high-intensity storms, often associated with atmospheric rivers, can increase the risk of localized flooding and drainage system exceedance at school facilities throughout Napa County, particularly those located along the valley floor within Napa Valley Unified School District.

Heavy rainfall over short durations can lead to ponding in school parking lots, play areas, and access roads, as well as increased stress on stormwater infrastructure. When intense storms follow extended dry periods, soils may be less able to absorb water, increasing runoff and the potential for localized erosion or minor slope instability, particularly in hillside areas. Flooding and debris may also affect school access routes and surrounding transportation corridors, impacting student transportation, site access, and emergency response.

Wildfire & Vegetation Change
Rising temperatures and prolonged dry conditions are expected to increase wildfire risk across Napa County, affecting NCOE-supported facilities, particularly those located near wildland–urban interface areas in districts such as Calistoga Joint Unified, St. Helena Unified, and Pope Valley Union Elementary. While many school sites are located in developed areas, they are often adjacent to open space, agricultural lands, and natural vegetation that may be susceptible to wildfire.

Wildfire events in surrounding areas can impact schools through smoke exposure, degraded air quality, and potential evacuations or operational disruptions. Changes in vegetation patterns, including increased plant stress and shifts in species composition, may contribute to higher fuel loads over time. Even in the absence of direct fire impacts, regional wildfire smoke can significantly affect school operations and student health, particularly for sensitive populations.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-47
Cascading Effects
Climate change increases the likelihood of cascading and compounding impacts across multiple hazards affecting NCOE and its partner school districts. Extreme heat can intensify drought conditions and elevate wildfire risk, while drought-stressed soils may be more vulnerable to erosion during heavy rainfall events.

Severe storms may impact infrastructure already stressed by age or environmental conditions, and flooding can disrupt transportation networks and utility systems critical to school operations.

These interconnected risks highlight the importance of integrating climate considerations into educational facility planning, infrastructure improvements, and emergency preparedness efforts across all districts served by NCOE. Proactive, coordinated, and adaptive strategies will be essential to maintaining safe learning environments and ensuring continuity of operations as climate conditions continue to evolve.

9.5.3 Climate Change Impacts & Vulnerable Populations
Climate change is expected to exacerbate many of the natural hazards affecting Napa County, increasing risks to populations that already face social, economic, or physical vulnerabilities. Rising temperatures, more extreme precipitation events, prolonged drought, sea level rise, and increased frequency of extreme heat are projected to intensify existing hazard conditions and create new challenges for public health, safety, and emergency response.

Certain populations in Napa County are more likely to experience disproportionate impacts from climaterelated hazards. Older adults, individuals with disabilities, low-income households, renters, and households with limited English proficiency may have reduced capacity to prepare for, respond to, and recover from climate-driven events. These groups may face barriers related to mobility, access to transportation, financial resources, housing stability, or timely access to emergency information.

Extreme heat presents a growing risk to vulnerable populations, particularly elderly residents, individuals with underlying health conditions, outdoor workers, and households without adequate cooling. Heat waves can increase the incidence of heat-related illness, strain electrical systems, and worsen air quality, especially when combined with wildfire smoke. Low-income households may be less able to afford cooling costs or make energy-efficient upgrades, increasing exposure during prolonged heat events.

Flooding and sea level rise disproportionately affect residents and workers in low-lying areas near the Napa River and bayfront. Vulnerable populations living or working in these areas may face greater risk of displacement, property damage, and disruption of access to essential services. Flood events can also impact transportation routes and utilities, creating additional challenges for individuals who rely on public transit, medical equipment, or nearby services.

Drought and water scarcity can place added burdens on vulnerable populations by increasing utility costs, limiting access to cooling and landscaping, and reducing the resilience of natural systems that provide flood protection and cooling benefits. For low-income households and fixed-income seniors, increased water and energy costs associated with drought and heat can compound financial stress.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-48
Climate change may also increase the frequency and duration of poor air quality events, particularly from regional wildfires. Individuals with respiratory conditions, older adults, children, and outdoor workers are especially sensitive to smoke exposure. Limited access to air filtration, clean indoor environments, or protective equipment can further increase health risks for vulnerable populations.

9.5.4 Hazard Problem Statements
As part of the mitigation action identification process, the Planning Committee for each jurisdiction identified areas of concern (aka problem statements) for their respective facilities based on the risk assessment and vulnerability analysis, utilizing the RAMP mapping and static snapshot maps. Problem statements focused on the impact, victim, or threat that the hazard could create in the jurisdiction, as described in Table 9-15. Identifying common issues and weaknesses through these problem statements assisted the planning group in understanding the realm of resources needed for mitigation.

The goal is to have at least one mitigation action for every problem statement. Projects or actions have been developed to mitigate each problem identified. See Table 9-17 for a full list of mitigation actions and corresponding problem statements that they address. Each problem statement is coded with a problem number for cross-referencing between Table 9-15 and Table 9-17 Table 9-15: NCOE Hazard Problem Statements
Problem No. Hazard Area of
Concern
Primary
Agency
Problem Description Related MA
ps-AH-NCOE362All Hazard Threat Napa County
Office of
Education
Emergency Operations Plans (EOPs) and
evacuation procedures across some campuses
in NCOE's sphere of influence are outdated or
incomplete, reducing preparedness during
wildfire, flood, or earthquake events.
ma-AH-NCOE238, ma-AHNCOE-242
ps-CC-NCOE368Climate
Change
Threat Napa County
Office of
Education
Campuses within the NCOE's sphere of
influence face increased exposure to climatedriven hazards such as extreme heat, severe weather, flooding, drought, and wildfire.
ma-AH-NCOE238, ma-AHNCOE-242, maDR-NCOE-28, maWF-NCOE-124, ma-WF-NCOE234, ma-WFNCOE-235, maSW-NCOE-241,
ma-SW-NCOE240, ma-HHNCOE-239, maFL-NCOE-237,
ma-AH-NCOE236
ps-DR-NCOE44Drought Impact Napa County
Office of
Education
There may not be adequate water for
restrooms, drinking, landscape maintenance,
and general operations in schools under the
NCOE’s sphere of influence and its own
facilities during extended drought events
when rationing and use limits are imposed.
ma-DR-NCo-24,
ma-DR-NCOE-28,
ma-AH-NCOE242
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-49
Problem No. Hazard Area of
Concern
Primary
Agency
Problem Description Related MA
ps-DR-NCOE361Drought Impact Napa County
Office of
Education
Schools within NCOE’s sphere of influence
lack a graywater or water reuse strategy,
leaving campuses reliant on potable supplies
even for non-critical functions, creating
operational inefficiencies during water
shortages.
ma-DR-NCOE-28
ps-EQ-NCOE75Earthquake Threat Napa County
Office of
Education
Several Napa LEA facilities and schools,
including those on the AB 300 list, are located
in severe seismic hazard zones and lack
structural retrofits, increasing risk to life safety
and continuity of operations.
ma-EQ-NCOE-40
ps-EQ-NCOE359Earthquake Threat Napa County
Office of
Education
Many campuses throughout the County lack
backup systems for communications, fire
suppression, or utilities. In the event of a major
earthquake, these gaps may delay emergency
response, evacuation coordination, and safe
reunification with families.
ma-AH-NCOE236, ma-EQNCOE-40
ps-EQ-NCOE360Earthquake Impact Napa County
Office of
Education
Earthquake damage to local access roads or
bridges may impede school site access by
staff, buses, and emergency responders,
affecting shelter-in-place plans and post-event
operations.
ma-AH-NCOE238, ma-AHNCOE-242, maEQ-NCOE-40
ps-FL-NCOE363Flood Threat Napa County
Office of
Education
Several campuses in NCOE’s sphere of
influence are vulnerable to recurring flood
impacts due to outdated stormwater systems,
undersized culverts, and low-lying building
pads that do not meet modern drainage
standards.
ma-FL-NCOE-237,
ma-SW-NCOE240
ps-FL-NCOE364Flood Impact Napa County
Office of
Education
Flooding at affected campuses has resulted in
classroom water intrusion, mold outbreaks,
and temporary closures, disrupting instruction
and creating long-term repair and healthrelated costs. ma-AH-NCOE242, ma-FLNCOE-237, maSW-NCOE-240
ps-HH-NCOE367High Heat Victim Napa County
Office of
Education
Many Napa LEA sites lack sufficient cooling,
ventilation, or shaded outdoor areas to protect
student and staff health during high-heat
events.
ma-AH-NCOE242, ma-HHNCOE-239, maWF-NCOE-234
ps-HH-NCOE369High Heat Impact Napa County
Office of
Education
Extreme heat events often trigger power
outages from high demand during peak hours
that can affect continuity of educational
operations on campuses without sufficient
back-ups.
ma-AH-NCOE236
ps-SW-NCOE365Severe
Weather
Impact Napa County
Office of
Education
High wind and heavy rain events have caused
roof damage, downed trees, power outages, and
blocked access to campuses, resulting in
temporary closures and hazardous conditions.
ma-AH-NCOE236, ma-FLNCOE-237, maSW-NCOE-240,
ma-SW-NCOE241
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-50
Problem No. Hazard Area of
Concern
Primary
Agency
Problem Description Related MA
ps-SW-NCOE366Severe
Weather
Threat Napa County
Office of
Education
Campuses across the county lack reliable
weather monitoring tools and stormpreparedness protocols. This limits the ability of facilities and operations teams to prepare
for and respond to high wind and heavy rain
storm events that may result in early
dismissals, transportation delays, or
emergency closures.
ma-AH-NCOE238, ma-AHNCOE-242, maFL-NCOE-237,
ma-SW-NCOE240, ma-SWNCOE-241
ps-WF-NCOE178Wildfire Threat Napa County
Office of
Education
Multiple Napa Local Education Agency (LEA)
campuses are located in moderate to high
wildfire intensity zones, facing threats from
smoke exposure, evacuation delays, and
operational disruption due to PSPS events.
ma-WF-NCo-94,
ma-WF-NCOE124, ma-AHNCOE-236, maAH-NCOE-238,
ma-AH-NCOE242, ma-HHNCOE-239, maWF-NCOE-234,
ma-WF-NCOE235
ps-WF-NCOE357Wildfire Victim Napa County
Office of
Education
Students and staff at multiple campuses face
respiratory risks from smoke during wildfire
events, with limited access to indoor air
purification systems.
ma-HH-NCOE239, ma-WFNCOE-234, maWF-NCOE-235
ps-WF-NCOE358Wildfire Impact Napa County
Office of
Education
Some Napa LEA campuses lack backup power
systems, leaving schools without lighting,
refrigeration, or communication capacity
during PSPS events.
ma-AH-NCOE236, ma-WFNCOE-124, maWF-NCOE-235
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-51

9.6 Mitigation Strategy
This section provides the framework for how the Napa County Office of Education will reduce hazard risk within its jurisdiction while supporting the broader goals of the Napa County MJHMP. It includes an overview of existing capabilities, opportunities to strengthen resilience, and the county’s prioritized mitigation actions. Together, these elements demonstrate how the Napa County Office of Education integrates hazard awareness into its planning and development processes while contributing to a coordinated countywide approach.

Within the Napa County MJHMP, the mitigation strategy serves as the roadmap for future hazard mitigation efforts. For the Napa County Office of Education, the strategy outlined in this annex reflects the outcomes of the countywide planning process while also addressing the county’s unique risks, priorities, and community needs. The strategy is designed to reduce vulnerabilities identified in the risk assessment, including the problem statements developed for flooding, earthquakes, slope failure, wildfire, drought, severe storms, extreme heat, and climate change.

Mitigation actions identified in this annex include both policy-based and project-based initiatives, with an emphasis on integrating resilience into land use planning, infrastructure investments, and community programs. Actions are structured to align with FEMA’s requirements and to coordinate with existing city, county, and regional planning mechanisms. Each action identifies responsible parties, potential funding sources, and the resources needed for implementation.

For the Napa County Office of Education, this strategy provides a framework for strengthening resilience by combining office-led initiatives, such as community preparedness, with regional coordination through the MJHMP. By advancing these efforts in local planning documents, the Napa County Office of Education enhances its ability to reduce hazard risk while supporting long-term community safety, sustainability, and economic stability.

The subsections that follow describe these elements in detail:
▪ Sections 9.6.1, Capabilities and Opportunities, provides a summary of NCOE’s capacity to address natural hazards.
▪ Section 9.6.2, Mitigation Action Plan, presents NCOE’s prioritized actions to guide implementation in coordination with countywide strategies.
▪ Section 9.6.3, Status of Previous Mitigation Actions, provides a summary of all previous actions and their current status, whether completed, cancelled, or revised.

Aligning the Action Plan
This section connects the Napa County Office of Education’s mitigation actions with its existing capabilities and areas for growth. Capability assessments are a required element of hazard mitigation planning under the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 and FEMA’s 2023 guidance, ensuring that actions are realistic, achievable, and aligned with available resources.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-52
The section begins with a summary of the Napa County Office of Education’s capabilities across four areas:
planning and regulatory, administrative and technical, fiscal, and education and outreach. This overview highlights the tools and strengths that the district already uses to reduce hazard risk. The section then provides a detailed analysis of each capability area, identifying both current practices and opportunities to expand resilience.

9.6.1 Capabilities & Opportunities
This section provides a detailed assessment of NCOE’s current capabilities to support hazard mitigation, as well as future opportunities. This consists of describing how NCOE is planning for hazards and growth and a summary of its existing capabilities and the potential for enhancement.

Planning for Hazards & Growth
The Napa County Office of Education (NCOE) manages program growth and service delivery within a decentralized framework that relies on coordination with local school districts, partner agencies, and thirdparty facility operators. Unlike a traditional campus-based institution, NCOE does not maintain a single, centralized site but instead operates across a network of administrative offices, alternative education programs, and specialized service locations distributed throughout Napa County. As a result, future development is generally limited to program expansion, reconfiguration of existing spaces, and strategic use of shared or leased facilities rather than large-scale new construction.

This distributed model places NCOE staff and students within a variety of built environments that may already be exposed to natural hazards such as flooding, earthquake ground shaking, wildfire, and extreme heat. Because many facilities are owned and maintained by partner districts or third parties, hazard exposure varies by site and is influenced by local geographic and environmental conditions. For example, some program locations may be situated in flood-prone areas near waterways, while others may be located in wildland-urban interface zones with elevated wildfire risk or in areas subject to strong seismic shaking.

To address these risks, NCOE integrates hazard awareness into program planning, interagency coordination, and operational procedures rather than direct control over facility design and construction.

Risk reduction strategies emphasize collaboration with host agencies to ensure that facility safety features, emergency access, evacuation planning, and continuity of operations are aligned with local hazard conditions. Where NCOE has influence, program siting and operational decisions consider hazard exposure, accessibility, and the needs of vulnerable populations served.

Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and intensity of hazards affecting Napa County, including extreme heat, drought, wildfire, and severe storm events. These changes may disproportionately impact the populations served by NCOE, including students with access and functional needs, those experiencing housing instability, and other vulnerable groups. As such, NCOE prioritizes adaptive planning approaches that enhance resilience through coordination, flexible service delivery, and integration with broader county and district-level mitigation efforts.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-53
Building Codes & Development Standards
Because NCOE facilities are often located within buildings owned or operated by school districts or other entities, responsibility for building design, construction, and code compliance typically rests with the facility owner. Most educational facilities in Napa County are regulated under the California Building Standards Code (Title 24) and overseen by the Division of the State Architect (DSA), which ensures compliance with structural safety, fire and life safety, and accessibility requirements for K–12 educational facilities.

NCOE coordinates with partner districts and agencies to ensure that the facilities it utilizes meet applicable safety standards and support the needs of its programs. This includes consideration of accessibility requirements, emergency systems, and life safety features appropriate for the populations served. While NCOE does not directly oversee construction, its collaboration with regulated entities ensures that facilities used for educational services are designed and maintained to withstand hazards such as earthquakes, fire, and extreme weather.

California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) & Hazard Mitigation Projects involving NCOE facilities or programs may be subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), particularly when new sites are established, existing facilities are modified, or program expansions require discretionary approvals. In most cases, CEQA compliance is led by the facility owner or lead agency, with NCOE participating as a responsible or coordinating agency.

Through CEQA, potential impacts related to hazards—including flooding, seismic risk, wildfire exposure, and hazardous materials—are evaluated, and mitigation measures are incorporated where necessary. These measures may include site-specific design considerations, emergency access improvements, or operational protocols to reduce risk.

NCOE operates within a broader regulatory environment that includes state and federal hazard mitigation frameworks, such as the California Building Standards Code, the State Seismic Hazards Mapping Act, and FEMA floodplain management requirements. By coordinating with partner agencies and adhering to these regulatory processes, NCOE supports the integration of hazard mitigation into facility use and program planning.

Development & Hazard Considerations
Development and program expansion for NCOE occur within a complex environment shaped by shared facilities, jurisdictional coordination, and varying hazard exposures across the county. Because NCOE does not control most facility development, its approach focuses on integrating hazard considerations into site selection, program operations, and interagency planning.

Facilities used by NCOE may be located in areas subject to multiple hazards, including flood zones, seismically active regions, and wildfire-prone landscapes. Rather than directing physical development, CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-54
NCOE works with host agencies to ensure that hazard risks are understood and addressed through existing regulatory and planning frameworks.

Key considerations include:
▪ Flooding: Coordination with local jurisdictions to understand flood risk and ensure appropriate emergency planning and facility use.
▪ Seismic Hazards: Reliance on state-regulated building standards and DSA oversight for structural safety in educational facilities.
▪ Wildfire and Extreme Heat: Consideration of site access, defensible space (where applicable), and emergency response coordination in higher-risk areas.
▪ Access and Transportation: Evaluation of evacuation routes and access constraints, particularly for facilities serving vulnerable populations.

Through this collaborative and risk-informed approach, NCOE supports the safe delivery of educational services while recognizing the constraints and responsibilities associated with its distributed facility model.

Capabilities & Opportunities Assessment
To develop a realistic and actionable mitigation strategy, it must account for existing jurisdictional capabilities and what future opportunities there are to enhance those capabilities for purposes of hazard mitigation. This section provides an assessment of the Napa County Office of Education’s existing capabilities and future opportunities, including planning and regulatory, administrative and technical, fiscal, and public outreach and education capabilities. This assessment also identifies opportunities to integrate this MJHMP into future planning, policies, or programs to weave mitigation efforts into daily operations and address hazard problems wholistically. Capabilities are categorized into four groups and include various mechanisms.
▪ Planning and Regulatory Capabilities: Existing long-range plans, emergency response plans, hazard-specific plans, land use policies, and building and development standards. ▪ Administrative and Technical Capabilities: Available expertise in emergency services, engineering, grant management, and community planning.
▪ Fiscal Capabilities: Budgetary capacity, taxing authority, grants, and other funding mechanisms that can support mitigation projects.
▪ Outreach and Education Capabilities: Existing programs for providing technical assistance, community education, public warnings, and stakeholder engagement.

A full description of the process used to develop the capabilities assessment is provided in Volume 1, Section

2.3.3. This capabilities and opportunities assessment for the Napa County Office of Education lists the various types of capabilities along with how they have been, currently are, or will in the future be integrated into CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-55
hazard mitigation planning efforts. The three “HMP Integration” columns that identify the capability’s status and usage are color-coded with green, yellow, or orange shading to communicate the following:
▪ Status: If the capability is present at all and what level of use it has generally. ▪ Current Mitigation Use: If the capability is currently being used in mitigation efforts, specifically, and at what level.
▪ Future Opportunity: If there is a future opportunity to integrate the capability into mitigation efforts and at what level.

Summary of Capabilities & Opportunities
This Capabilities and Opportunities Assessment for the NCOE summarizes the various types of capabilities it has for hazard mitigation currently. The assessment also identifies opportunities to integrate, expand, and improve NCOE’s capabilities for future hazard mitigation. Table 9-16 provides a comprehensive list of capabilities and identifies the current status, current mitigation use, and future opportunities.

Planning & Regulatory
The Napa County Office of Education is a countywide agency that provides very specific education and supervision services. The Office of Education does not directly regulate development or land use activities.

It also does not indirectly regulate development or land use activities through natural resource management or provision of utilities.

Administrative & Technical
The Napa County Office of Education is a countywide agency that provides very specific education and supervision services. The Office of Education does not directly regulate development or land use activities.

It also does not indirectly regulate development or land use activities through natural resource management or provision of utilities.

While the office does not have dedicated staff for public outreach, GIS, or grant management, these functions are addressed through shared responsibilities across departments and through coordination with regional partners such as Napa County, which provides GIS support. This shared staffing approach effectively supports current mitigation activities but represents an opportunity for enhancement as hazard mitigation, climate adaptation, and grant funding efforts expand.

Warning Systems & Services
The Napa County Office of Education has a webpage devoted to emergency preparedness with links to wildfire, emergency evacuation, air quality, and public safety power shutoffs. The Office of Education utilizes the Alert Napa County emergency notification system as its primary platform for disseminating time-sensitive warnings related to natural hazards, evacuations, sheltering, and public safety incidents.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-56
Emergency information is also communicated through partner social media channels, which provide rapid updates and situational awareness during evolving incidents. This multi-channel approach helps ensure redundancy and increases the likelihood that critical information reaches residents with varying access to technology or communication needs. Warning systems support response to a range of hazards, including flooding, wildfire, earthquakes, extreme weather, and power shutoff events.

Fiscal
The Napa County Office of Education has moderate to strong fiscal capacity to support hazard mitigation through a combination of local revenues, fees, grants, and long-term financing tools. These funding mechanisms support infrastructure maintenance, capital improvements, and implementation of hazard mitigation measures identified in plans and programs.

Education & Outreach
The Napa County Office of Education has strong education and outreach capabilities that support public awareness, preparedness, and risk reduction for natural hazards. The office maintains a dedicated emergency preparedness webpage, which centralizes information on alerts, evacuations, flooding, wildfire, earthquakes, power shutoffs, and other hazards. This resource serves as the primary hub for hazard-related public information.

The Office of Education actively uses its own website and social media platforms, including Facebook, Flickr, Instagram, LinkedIn, Nextdoor, X, and YouTube, to disseminate emergency information, preparedness messaging, and real-time updates during incidents. These digital tools are complemented by participation in annual public safety and preparedness events.

ASSESSMENT LEGEND
HMP Integration
Status Current Mitigation Use Future Opportunity
Currently in use or present. Used widely for mitigation. Opportunity to expand and integrate. (Sort of) Seldomly used or limited
presence.

Limited use in mitigation
planning.

Limited opportunity to expand and
integrate.
(No) Not present or available. Not used in mitigation planning.

No opportunity to expand or
integrate.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-57
Table 9-16: NCOE Capabilities and Opportunities Assessment HMP Integration
Resource Status
Current
Mitigation
Use
Future
Opportunity Notes / Additional Detail
Planning and Regulatory
Capabilities
Hazard Reduction Programs
(Annually Conducted)
Capital Improvements Program
(CIP) or Plan Orange Orange Green No formal CIP framework; only strategic capital priorities noted in Strategic Plan.

Annual Fire Prevention Plan
Yellow Yellow Green
Fire drills conducted and integrated into safety
plans; lacks a dedicated structural fire
prevention plan.

Seismic Safety Program (Nonstructural) Yellow Yellow Green Yearly earthquake drills and facility safety
inspections are implemented; could formalize
structured program.

Earthquake Modernization Plan
(Building Safety) Yellow Yellow Green
Evidence of building inspections and seismic
drills; opportunity to formalize retrofit
standards.

Stormwater Management
Program (Annual Inspections) N/A N/A N/A
Not applicable—no reference to facility-level
stormwater infrastructure. Handled by each
individual school district.

Hazard Plans and Programs
Floodplain Response Plan
Orange Orange Yellow
No standalone flood response plan identified.

Response is likely folded into county-wide
planning or school site protocols.

Community Wildfire Protection
Plan (CWPP) Green Green Yellow NCOE participates in planning efforts aligned with the county CWPP and MJHMP.

Ground Water Management
Planning / Plans N/A N/A N/A
Outside NCOE’s operational scope. Not
applicable to education agency
responsibilities.

Climate Action Plan
Yellow Yellow Green
No formal CAP, but EOP and strategic goals
mention climate resilience. Room for growth
through coordinated county planning.

Drought Mgmt/ Contingency
Plan Yellow Yellow Yellow
School facilities coordinate with municipal
utilities. No dedicated drought contingency
plan found.

FireWise Communities within
District Orange Orange Green No indication of FireWise designation for any school site. Could be a future goal
Hazard-Related Public Outreach
Program Yellow Yellow Green
Public-facing alerts, school safety messaging,
and bilingual wildfire/air quality resources are
regularly provided.

Administrative and
Technical
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-58
HMP Integration
Resource Status
Current
Mitigation
Use
Future
Opportunity Notes / Additional Detail
Staff Capacity
Emergency Manager
Yellow Yellow Green
NCOE does not appear to have a dedicated
emergency manager, but some responsibilities
handled by facilities/admin.

Civil Engineer
Orange Orange Yellow
Not present within NCOE. Engineering
handled by external consultants or public
works agencies.

Dedicated Public Outreach
Personnel Yellow Yellow Green
Public communications are active and
bilingual, but not focused specifically on
mitigation outreach.

GIS Specialist and Capability
Orange Orange Yellow No in-house GIS capability noted. Would likely rely on County GIS or consultant support
Grant Manager, Writer, or
Specialist Yellow Yellow Green
NCOE has been successful in applying for
grants (e.g.NCOE HMP update) but lacks
dedicated listed personnel
Other N/A N/A N/A
Warning Systems/Services
General
Yellow Yellow Green
Not within scope or purpose, but NCOE
coordinates with Napa County OES and
schools participate in general alerts (e.g., Nixle,
Everbridge). Not standalone system.

Flood Yellow Yellow Green County OES alert system
Wildfire
Yellow Yellow Green
Air quality and wildfire information is shared
regularly; partial integration with school
emergency protocols.

Geological Hazards Yellow Yellow Green County OES alert system Fiscal Capabilities
Financial Resources for
Hazard Mitigation
Levy for Specific Purposes with
Voter Approval Yellow Orange Yellow
School districts (not NCOE) can seek parcel
taxes or bond measures with voter approval,
though infrequently pursued for mitigation.

Utilities Fees
N/A N/A N/A Not applicable to NCOE operations; does not operate utilities or collect such fees.

System Development Fee
N/A N/A N/A Not relevant for education institutions; not imposed by NCOE.

General Obligation Bonds to
Incur Debt Yellow Orange Yellow School Districts may issue bonds, but not NCOE directly
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-59
HMP Integration
Resource Status
Current
Mitigation
Use
Future
Opportunity Notes / Additional Detail
Special Tax Bonds to Incur Debt
Orange Orange Orange
No evidence of use; likely handled through
districts or the county rather than NCOE
directly.

Withheld Spending in HazardProne Areas Green Yellow Green While not formalized, NCOE planning takes
location hazards into account for facility
investment decisions.

Stormwater Service Fees
N/A N/A N/A Not applicable—stormwater utilities are
handled by local public works or city agencies.

Capital Improvement Project
Funding Yellow Yellow Yellow
Some limited access through deferred
maintenance and facility improvements
funding via State or County.

Education / Outreach
Capabilities
Education/Outreach
Resources
Website Dedicated to Hazard
Topics Yellow Orange Green
NCOE’s site lacks a dedicated hazard webpage.

Some information may be included under
general safety or facilities topics.

Dedicated Social Media Green Yellow Green Facebook, Instagram, Twitter Hazard Info. Avail. at Library/
Planning Desk N/A N/A N/A
Not applicable to NCOE. Hazard materials
more often shared through digital or schoolspecific platforms.

Annual Public Safety Events
Yellow Yellow Green
Some districts under NCOE umbrella
participate in drills (e.g., Great ShakeOut);
could be expanded.

Ability to Field Public Tech.

Assistance Requests Orange Orange Yellow No public-facing tech request portal related to hazard topics.

Public Safety Newsletters or
Printed Outreach Yellow Yellow Green
Varies by program and school site; potential to
develop consistent hazard communication
across NCOE.

Fire Safe Councils
Orange Orange Yellow
Not led by NCOE but could coordinate with
Napa County FSC for school/community
outreach.

Resource Conservation Districts
Yellow Yellow Green Potential partner for watershed, drought, and fire resilience education.

Other N/A N/A N/A
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-60

9.6.2 Napa County Office of Education Mitigation Action Plan The Napa County Office
of Education’s
mitigation actions were
developed through a
collaborative process
informed by the updated
risk assessment, local
priorities, and extensive
stakeholder
engagement. As part of
this 2026 MJHMP
update, the office
reviewed mitigation
actions from its prior
Local Hazard Mitigation
Plan to determine which
actions to carry forward,
which to consolidate,
and where entirely new
strategies were required.

This careful evaluation
ensured that the updated action plan builds upon past commitments while also responding to current risks and future challenges.

The plan addresses the Napa County Office of Education’s most significant hazards, including wildfire, earthquake, flood, slope failure, drought, dam failure, and extreme weather. Each mitigation action is designed to align with FEMA’s hazard mitigation guidance and the requirements of the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000. Where appropriate, overlapping or redundant actions were consolidated into broader, more comprehensive strategies that improve clarity, increase feasibility, and strengthen regional coordination.

The mitigation action prioritization method used by all participating jurisdictions is described in Volume 1, Section 4. Each action specific to the Napa County Office of Education is documented in Table 9-17, which identifies the responsible department, implementation timeframe, potential funding sources, and resources required to complete the action. Each action is also assigned a unique alphanumeric identifier (see Figure 9-8) that links the strategy to its associated hazard and supports consistent monitoring and reporting.

The Napa County Office of Education’s approach recognizes that some hazards are most effectively addressed through regional efforts. Flood protection, drought resilience, and wildfire risk reduction often extend beyond the jurisdiction’s boundaries and require collaboration with county, regional, and state partners. By aligning local actions with regional strategies, the Napa County Office of Education helps to Figure 9-8: Mitigation Action Number Key
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-61
consolidate resources, maximize funding opportunities, and ensure that mitigation projects achieve the greatest benefit for San Pablo Bay, the Napa Valley, and the wider Napa County community.

Collectively, these mitigation actions provide a roadmap for reducing hazard risk, protecting vulnerable populations, and strengthening the long-term resilience of the Napa County Office of Education.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-62
Table 9-17: NCOE Mitigation Action Plan
Mitigation No. Hazard
Type
SubHazardMitigation
Type
Year Primary
Agency
Title Description Responsible Party Estimated
Cost
Estimated
Benefit
Time
Frame
HMA
Activity
Type
Potential Grant
Source
Priority Related Problem Statements
ma-AH-NCOE236All Hazard PPRO -
Property
Protection , ES
- Emergency
Services , SP -
Structural
Projects
2026 Napa
County
Office of
Education
Backup Power &
Energy
Resilience
Install backup generators, battery storage, or
other power redundancy systems at critical
campuses in high-risk wildfire and PSPS zones
to ensure power continuity for lighting,
refrigeration, and air filtration.

Facilities/Grounds
Maintenance
High High 1-3 Years Project HMGP / BRIC ,
General Fund
High ps-EQ-NCOE-359, ps-EHNCOE-369, ps-SW-NCOE-365,
ps-WF-NCOE-178, ps-WFNCOE-358, ps-CC-NCOE-368
ma-AH-NCOE238All Hazard PRV -
Prevention
2026 Napa
County
Office of
Education
Emergency
Operations Plan
(EOP)
Modernization
Revise and standardize all school EOPs to
include protocols for wildfire, earthquake, flood,
and extended power outage scenarios, with
annual drills.

Administration Medium Medium 3-5 Years Capacity /
Capability
Building

HMGP / BRIC ,
General Fund
High ps-AH-NCOE-362, ps-CCNCOE-368, ps-EQ-NCOE-360,
ps-SW-NCOE-366, ps-WFNCOE-178
ma-AH-NCOE242All Hazard PE&A - Public
Education &
Awareness
2026 Napa
County
Office of
Education
Hazard
Education &
Awareness
Program
Establish an education and outreach program
focused on all-hazards risk awareness,
preparedness, and prevention, including
addressing evacuation and shelter-in-place
procedures, and home mitigation opportunities
and resources aimed at faculty, staff, students,
and their households.

Administration Low Medium 1-3 Years Capacity /
Capability
Building

HMGP / BRIC ,
General Fund
Medium ps-AH-NCOE-362, ps-CCNCOE-368, ps-DR-NCOE-44,
ps-EQ-NCOE-360, ps-FLNCOE-364, ps-EH-NCOE-367,
ps-SW-NCOE-366, ps-WFNCOE-178
ma-DR-NCOE28Drought SP - Structural
Projects
2020 Napa
County
Office of
Education
Water
Resiliency
Upgrades
Retrofit water supply systems to improve
storage, delivery, and reuse capacity during
drought conditions, including exploration of
graywater system integration.

Facilities/Grounds
Maintenance
High High 5-10 Years Project HMGP / BRIC ,
General Fund
High ps-DR-NCOE-44, ps-DRNCOE-361, ps-CC-NCOE-368
ma-EQ-NCOE40Earthquake PPRO -
Property
Protection
2020 Napa
County
Office of
Education
Seismic
Retrofits for AB
300 & Priority
Campuses
Retrofit / harden multiple COE facilities
identified on the AB 300 list or in high-risk
earthquake zones.

Facilities/Grounds
Maintenance
High High 5-10 Years Project HMGP / BRIC ,
General Fund
High ps-EQ-NCOE-75, ps-EQNCOE-359, ps-EQ-NCOE-360
ma-EH-NCOE239Extreme
Heat
PPRO -
Property
Protection ,
NRP - Natural
Resource
Protection , SP
- Structural
Projects
2026 Napa
County
Office of
Education
Heat & Air
Quality
Adaptation
Projects
Install HVAC upgrades, shade structures, and
cooling systems for campuses vulnerable to
extreme heat and poor air quality.

Facilities/Grounds
Maintenance
High High 5-10 Years Project HMGP / BRIC ,
General Fund
Medium ps-EH-NCOE-367, ps-WFNCOE-178, ps-WF-NCOE-357,
ps-CC-NCOE-368
ma-FL-NCOE237Flood PPRO -
Property
Protection , SP
- Structural
Projects
2026 Napa
County
Office of
Education
Stormwater &
Drainage
Improvements
Work with campuses within Napa COE's sphere
of influence to upgrade outdated drainage
systems and flood-prone building pads to
prevent classroom water intrusion, mold
growth, and infrastructure damage.

Facilities/Grounds
Maintenance
High High 5-10 Years Project HMGP / BRIC ,
General Fund
Medium ps-FL-NCOE-363, ps-FLNCOE-364, ps-SW-NCOE-365,
ps-SW-NCOE-366, ps-CCNCOE-368
ma-SW-NCOE240Severe
Weather
PPRO -
Property
Protection ,
NRP - Natural
Resource
Protection , SP
- Structural
Projects
2026 Napa
County
Office of
Education
Weatherproofing
for Storm
Resilience
Work with campuses within Napa COE's sphere
of influence to retrofit roofs, remove or trim
hazardous trees, and upgrade infrastructure to
reduce storm-related damage and maintain
safe access.

Facilities/Grounds
Maintenance
High High 5-10 Years Project HMGP / BRIC ,
General Fund
Medium ps-SW-NCOE-366, ps-SWNCOE-365, ps-FL-NCOE-363,
ps-FL-NCOE-364, ps-CCNCOE-368
ma-SW-NCOE241Severe
Weather
PRV -
Prevention
2026 Napa
County
Office of
Education
Transportation &
Access
Reliability
Develop contingency transportation plans for
severe weather events to ensure students can
access schools or services safely when roads
are blocked or buses are unavailable.

Administration Low Medium 1-3 Years Capacity /
Capability
Building

HMGP / BRIC ,
General Fund
Medium ps-SW-NCOE-365, ps-SWNCOE-366, ps-CC-NCOE-368
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
9-63
Mitigation No. Hazard
Type
SubHazardMitigation
Type
Year Primary
Agency
Title Description Responsible Party Estimated
Cost
Estimated
Benefit
Time
Frame
HMA
Activity
Type
Potential Grant
Source
Priority Related Problem Statements
ma-WF-NCOE124Wildfire NRP - Natural
Resource
Protection
2020 Napa
County
Office of
Education
Defensible
Space & Site
Hardening
Expand defensible space creation and fuel
reduction around all high-risk campuses.

Integrate with evacuation readiness and power
continuity.

Facilities/Grounds
Maintenance
Medium High 3-5 Years Project HMGP / BRIC ,
General Fund ,
CalFIRE
High ps-WF-NCOE-178, ps-WFNCOE-358, ps-CC-NCOE-368
ma-WF-NCOE234Wildfire ES -
Emergency
Services , SP -
Structural
Projects
2026 Napa
County
Office of
Education
Air Filtration &
Classroom
Protection
Install portable and built-in air purifiers in
classrooms across smoke-prone campuses to
reduce health risks during wildfire smoke
events.

Facilities/Grounds
Maintenance
Medium Medium 1-3 Years Capacity /
Capability
Building

HMGP / BRIC ,
General Fund
High ps-CC-NCOE-368, ps-EHNCOE-367, ps-WF-NCOE-357,
ps-WF-NCOE-178
ma-WF-NCOE235Wildfire PRV -
Prevention ,
ES -
Emergency
Services
2026 Napa
County
Office of
Education
Continuity
Planning for
WUI Campuses
Develop site continuity plans for campuses in
WUI zones to address PSPS events, evacuation,
and student relocation procedures.

Administration Low Medium 3-5 Years Capacity /
Capability
Building

HMGP / BRIC ,
General Fund
Medium ps-WF-NCOE-358, ps-WFNCOE-357, ps-WF-NCOE-178,
ps-CC-NCOE-368
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
9-64

9.6.3 Status of Previous Mitigation Actions
In 2020, NCOE adopted its previous FEMA-approved HMP. This 2026 MJHMP represents a comprehensive update from that previous plan, as discussed in Volume 1, Section 1.5. Table 9-18 provides status updates for all of the previous mitigation actions in the office’s annex from 2020, from which many of the mitigation actions in Table 9-17 were sourced and revised.

Table 9-18: NCOE Status of Previous Mitigation Actions
Mitigation No. Status Year Primary Agency Title/Description ma-DR-NCOE-28 Ongoing 2020 Napa County
Office of
Education
Water Resiliency Upgrades
ma-EQ-NCOE-40 Ongoing 2020 Napa County
Office of
Education
Seismic Retrofits for AB 300 and Priority
Campuses
ma-WF-NCOE-124 Ongoing 2020 Napa County
Office of
Education
Defensible Space and Site Hardening
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-1
Section 10. Napa Valley College
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-2

PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-3
Napa County
2026 Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan Update Napa Valley College (NVC)
Special Agency Annex
Section 10. Napa Valley College................................................................................................ 10-8

10.1 Scope & Purpose ................................................................................................................................................................... 10-8

10.2 Jurisdictional Setting......................................................................................................................................................... 10-8

10.2.1 Geography & Climate .............................................................................................................................................. 10-10

10.2.2 Campus Building Inventory & Lifelines .......................................................................................................... 10-12

10.2.3 Student Body & Staff ............................................................................................................................................... 10-15

10.2.4 Dependent & Disabled Populations................................................................................................................... 10-16

10.2.5 Regional Income & Housing Demographics.................................................................................................. 10-17

10.2.6 Housing ........................................................................................................................................................................ 10-19

10.2.7 Race, Ethnicity & Language .................................................................................................................................10-20

10.2.8 Growth Trends & Future Development............................................................................................................ 10-21

10.3 Planning Process ...............................................................................................................................................................10-22

10.3.1 Public Input & Draft Review .................................................................................................................................10-24

10.4 What’s New...........................................................................................................................................................................10-25

10.4.1 Mitigation Activities ...............................................................................................................................................10-25

10.4.2 Mitigation Successes..............................................................................................................................................10-26

10.5 Risk Assessment................................................................................................................................................................10-27

10.5.1 Hazard Screening & Prioritization ....................................................................................................................10-27

10.5.2 Vulnerability to Specific Hazards...................................................................................................................... 10-31

10.5.3 Climate Change Impacts & Vulnerable Populations..................................................................................10-55

10.5.4 Hazard Problem Statements................................................................................................................................10-56

10.6 Mitigation Strategy ...........................................................................................................................................................10-58

10.6.1 Capabilities & Opportunities................................................................................................................................10-59

10.6.2 Napa Valley College Mitigation Action Plan.................................................................................................10-70

10.6.3 Status of Previous Mitigation Actions.............................................................................................................10-74 CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-4
List of Figures
Figure 10-1: Napa Valley College Geographic Overview Map.........................................................................................10-11 Figure 10-2: Napa Valley College Parcels and Buildings ................................................................................................ 10-14 Figure 10-3: Napa Valley College Student Enrollment Numbers................................................................................. 10-15 Figure 10-4: Napa Valley College Staff Occupational Categories................................................................................ 10-16 Figure 10-5: Napa Valley College Average Award Discount by Income.................................................................... 10-18 Figure 10-6: Barrels and Shelving Collapsed in Classroom from Earthquake .......................................................10-26 Figure 10-7: Napa Valley College Risk Assessment Matrix...........................................................................................10-29 Figure 10-8: Napa Valley College Wildfire Risk (Main Campus)..................................................................................10-33 Figure 10-9: Napa Valley College Wildfire Risk (St. Helena Campus)........................................................................10-34 Figure 10-10: Napa Valley College Earthquake Risk (M6.7 West Napa) (Main Campus).....................................10-37 Figure 10-11: Napa Valley College Earthquake Risk (M6.7 West Napa) (St. Helena Campus)...........................10-38 Figure 10-12: Napa Valley College Earthquake Risk (M7.1 Hunting Creek Berryessa) (Main Campus)........10-39 Figure 10-13: Napa Valley College Earthquake Risk (M7.1 Hunting Creek Berryessa) (St. Helena Campus).. 10- 40 Figure 10-14: Napa Valley College Liquefaction Risk (Main Campus)....................................................................... 10-41 Figure 10-15: Napa Valley College Liquefaction Risk (St. Helena Campus)............................................................ 10-42 Figure 10-16: Napa Valley College Flood Risk (Main Campus) .....................................................................................10-45 Figure 10-17: Napa Valley College Flood Risk (St. Helena Campus).......................................................................... 10-46 Figure 10-18: Drought Severity Timeline 2000-2025........................................................................................................ 10-49 Figure 10-19: Mitigation Action Number Key ......................................................................................................................10-70 List of Tables
Table 10-1: Napa Valley College Planning Team and Steering Group Members ...................................................10-22 Table 10-2: Napa Valley College Planning Team Meetings .......................................................................................... 10-24 Table 10-3: Napa Valley College Document Review of Potential Hazards...............................................................10-28 Table 10-4: Napa Valley College Hazards Prioritization Summary ............................................................................10-30 Table 10-5: Napa Valley College Wildfire Exposure ..........................................................................................................10-32 Table 10-6: Napa Valley College Earthquake Exposure (M6.7 West Napa)...............................................................10-36 Table 10-7: Napa Valley College Earthquake Exposure (M7.1 Hunting Creek Berryessa)..................................10-36 Table 10-8: Napa Valley College Flood Exposure .............................................................................................................. 10-44 Table 10-9: Drought Classifications and Impacts ............................................................................................................. 10-48 Table 10-10: Cal-Adapt Extreme Heat Terms and Thresholds......................................................................................10-52 Table 10-11: Napa Valley College Hazard Problem Statements ....................................................................................10-56 Table 10-12: Napa Valley College Capabilities and Opportunities Assessment.....................................................10-65 Table 10-13: Napa Valley College Mitigation Action Plan...............................................................................................10-72 Table 10-14: Napa Valley College Status of Previous Mitigation Actions................................................................ 10-74 CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-5
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-6
Adoption Resolution
To comply with the Federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (DMA 2000), Napa Valley College has officially adopted this 2026 Napa County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan, including Volume 1 in its entirety as well as this Volume 2 municipal annex. The adoption of the MJHMP recognizes the agency’s commitment to reducing the impacts of natural hazards within its jurisdiction and across Napa County.

A copy of the agency’s adoption record is provided on the following pages. Adoption records for all jurisdictions are summarized in Volume 1, Table ES-1.

ADOPTION RECORD TO BE INSERTED UPON COMPLETION.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-7

PAGE INTENTIONALLY BLANK
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-8
Section 10. Napa Valley College

10.1 Scope & Purpose
This Jurisdictional Annex for the Napa Valley College of the 2026 Napa County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (MJHMP) details the hazard mitigation planning elements specific to the agency’s planning area. The annex is not intended to be a standalone document but appends to and supplements the information contained in the umbrella plan document (Volume 1). This annex provides additional information specific to the city, with a focus on hazard identification and risk assessment, vulnerability assessment, problem statements, mitigation strategy, and capabilities assessment. Below are the Napa Valley College Points of Contact:

Primary Point of Contact Alternate Point of Contact
Amber Wade, Chief of Police
Napa Valley College
2277 Napa Vallejo Hwy,
Napa, 94558
Telephone: (707) 256-7000
email: [email protected]
Facilities Director
Napa Valley College
2277 Napa Vallejo Hwy,
Napa, 94558
Telephone: (707) 256-7000
email: [email protected]

10.2 Jurisdictional Setting
Napa Valley College (NVC) is a public community college serving Napa County and the surrounding region as part of the California Community Colleges system. The College provides academic, career technical, and community education programs to a diverse student population, as well as workforce training and lifelong learning opportunities. In addition to its educational mission, NVC serves as a community resource and gathering place, which increases its importance in emergency preparedness, response, and recovery activities.

NVC is governed by an elected Board of Trustees and operates under the administrative leadership of a Superintendent/President. The College is subject to oversight and regulatory requirements established by the California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office and applicable State of California laws, including building, safety, and accessibility standards. Unlike cities or counties, NVC does not have land use authority beyond its campuses; development and capital improvements are guided by state requirements, internal facilities planning documents, and voter approved bond programs.

The main campus is located at 2277 Napa Vallejo Highway in the City of Napa, situated along the Napa Valley floor in proximity to the Napa River and local tributaries. In addition to the main campus, Napa Valley College operates an educational center in the City of St. Helena, extending services to the northern portion of Napa County. The St. Helena Campus supports instructional programs and community access to higher education, with its own set of facilities, infrastructure, and localized hazard considerations.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-9
Additional educational services and programs may occur at satellite or partner locations throughout Napa County; however, the College does not own or maintain all facilities where it has a presence. As such, NVC’s role in emergency preparedness and hazard mitigation at off site locations may be limited or coordinated with the host jurisdiction or property owner.

The College serves a substantial daytime and, increasingly, residential population that includes students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Napa Valley College supports approximately 6,000 to 6,500 students annually, with broader district service levels exceeding 10,000 full- and part-time students per semester. In addition, the College employs over 180 staff. Population levels fluctuate throughout the academic year and daily class schedules, and recent development of on-campus student housing has introduced a 24-hour residential population.

NVC operates a range of facilities including classrooms, laboratories, administrative buildings, student services, and support infrastructure such as utilities, parking areas, and stormwater systems. The campus includes both older structures constructed in earlier decades and newer facilities built to current State seismic and building standards. Recent capital investments, including student housing and instructional facilities, have expanded the College’s physical footprint and increased the overall value and exposure of campus assets. Portions of the campus are located within areas subject to natural hazards, including flooding and dam inundation zones, as identified in this annex.

Because of its role as a critical educational institution and community resource, Napa Valley College must maintain continuity of operations and ensure the safety of its campus population during hazard events. The College maintains internal emergency management capabilities, including a campus police department, emergency notification systems, and coordination with Napa County Operational Area partners.

Key Characteristics:
▪ Jurisdiction Type: Public Community College (California Community Colleges System) ▪ Governance: Elected Board of Trustees; Superintendent/President leadership ▪ Primary Campus Location: 2277 Napa Vallejo Highway, Napa, CA ▪ Service Area: Napa County and surrounding region
▪ Population Served: ~6,000–6,500 students annually; >10,000 district-wide; ~180 staff (variable and partially residential population)
▪ Facilities: Academic, residential, administrative, and support infrastructure across campus ▪ Operational Role: Education provider, community resource, and potential emergency support and sheltering site
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-10
Planning Considerations:
▪ Large daytime population with fluctuating occupancy
▪ Presence of older and newer buildings with varying structural characteristics ▪ Some buildings within a floodplain and dam inundation area ▪ Dependence on transportation access and utility systems for continuity ▪ Coordination required with local and state agencies for emergency management

10.2.1 Geography & Climate
Napa Valley College is located in Napa County in the North Bay region of California, approximately 50 miles northeast of San Francisco. The College’s service area encompasses all of Napa County, including the incorporated cities of American Canyon, Napa, St. Helena, and Calistoga, as well as unincorporated rural areas and agricultural lands throughout the Napa Valley. Figure 10-1 identifies Napa Valley College’s location within Napa County. This area includes the Napa Valley floor, surrounding foothills and mountain ranges, and the Napa River watershed.

The main campus in the City of Napa is situated along the valley floor near the Napa River and its tributaries, in a relatively low-lying area with proximity to mapped flood hazard zones. The College also operates a campus in St. Helena, located in the northern Napa Valley, which is characterized by a narrower valley floor and proximity to hillside and wildland areas. These differing geographic settings expose College facilities to a range of natural hazards, including flooding, wildfire, and seismic activity.

The climate of Napa Valley College’s service area is classified as Mediterranean, with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Precipitation is highly seasonal, with the majority occurring between November and April, often associated with atmospheric river storm events that can produce intense rainfall over short durations.

Average annual precipitation varies across the County, generally ranging from approximately 20 inches on the valley floor to over 40 inches in higher elevation areas. Summer temperatures frequently reach the 80s to 90s °F in inland valley areas, while winter temperatures are typically mild, with daytime highs in the 50s °F and cooler nighttime conditions. (U.S. Climate Data, 2020) Climate variability in Napa County has increased in recent decades, with more frequent and intense extreme weather events, including atmospheric river storms, prolonged drought, and extreme heat. These conditions contribute to increased flood risk, wildfire potential, and stress on water supply and infrastructure systems. The Napa River watershed, which drains much of the County, is particularly sensitive to intense rainfall events that can generate rapid runoff, localized flooding, and downstream impacts in developed areas along the valley floor.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-11
Figure 10-1: Napa Valley College Geographic Overview Map CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-12

10.2.2 Campus Building Inventory & Lifelines
Napa Valley College operates multiple educational facilities within Napa County, including its primary campus in the City of Napa and a secondary campus in St. Helena. The main Napa campus encompasses a large, developed footprint consisting of academic buildings, laboratories, administrative offices, student services, and support infrastructure, as well as recently constructed student housing facilities. The St.

Helena Campus provides additional instructional space and community-serving functions in the northern portion of the County. Together, these campuses include a mix of older structures and newer buildings constructed to modern seismic and building standards. Both campuses are largely built-out, meaning that future development will primarily consist of renovation, modernization, and targeted expansion rather than large-scale new construction.

The College maintains detailed facility and infrastructure data to support planning and hazard mitigation, including building age, construction type, and critical system dependencies. This information supports vulnerability assessments and prioritization of mitigation actions. Figure X-X illustrates campus parcels and building footprints for Napa Valley College facilities.

Safety & Security
Law enforcement services for Napa Valley College are provided by the Napa Valley College Police Department, which maintains on-campus presence and coordinates closely with the Napa Police Department, Napa County Sheriff’s Office, and other regional law enforcement agencies. The St. Helena Campus is supported by local law enforcement resources, including the St. Helena Police Department. This coordinated approach supports rapid response and integrated emergency management across College facilities.

Fire protection services are provided by local fire agencies, including Napa Fire Department for the main campus and St. Helena Fire Department for the northern campus. Fire stations are located in close proximity to both campuses, supporting timely emergency response. Campus facilities are equipped with fire suppression systems, alarms, and hydrant access to support firefighting operations and life safety.

Water
Water service to the Napa campus is provided by local municipal water systems, supported by on-site infrastructure including distribution lines, fire protection systems, and irrigation networks. The College maintains system mapping to allow for rapid isolation of water lines in the event of leaks or damage. Water supply reliability may be affected by drought conditions, infrastructure disruptions, or emergency events.

Redundancy is limited to municipal system capacity and emergency response measures.

Health & Medical
The College provides basic health services on campus; however, advanced medical care is provided by nearby healthcare facilities, including hospitals and emergency medical service providers in Napa County.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-13
During major hazard events, access to medical care may be impacted by roadway closures, utility outages, or increased regional demand for emergency services.

Energy (Power & Fuel)
Electrical power for Napa Valley College is provided by Pacific Gas and Electric Company. Portions of the campus are served by underground distribution, which reduces exposure to certain hazards; however, the College remains dependent on the regional electrical grid. Backup power capacity is limited and may not support full campus operations during extended outages, affecting continuity of operations.

Communications
The College relies on a combination of wired and wireless communication systems, including internet, phone networks, and emergency notification systems. These systems are integrated with local and regional emergency management networks. While primary systems are robust, communication capabilities may be degraded during large-scale disasters affecting regional infrastructure.

Transportation
Access to the Napa Valley College main campus is primarily provided via Napa Vallejo Highway and adjacent local roadways, which serve as critical routes for daily access, evacuation, and emergency response. The St. Helena Campus is accessed via State Route 29 and local road networks. These transportation corridors are vulnerable to flooding, wildfire, traffic congestion, and other disruptions that could limit access to and from campus during hazard events. Public transit services provide additional connectivity but may be interrupted during emergencies.

Hazardous Materials
Campus operations, including laboratory and instructional activities, involve the use and storage of limited quantities of hazardous materials. These materials are managed in accordance with applicable regulations and campus safety protocols, including proper storage, handling, and emergency response procedures.

While risks are controlled, accidental releases during hazard events remain a potential concern requiring ongoing planning and coordination.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-14
Figure 10-2: Napa Valley College Parcels and Buildings
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-15

10.2.3 Student Body & Staff
According to the U.S. Department of Education’s Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), Napa Valley College serves approximately 6,000 to 7,000 students annually, with a portion enrolled full-time and the remainder attending part-time. (Figure 10-3) The College maintains a student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 20:1 to 25:1, and employs several hundred faculty and staff across instructional, administrative, and support functions. (Figure 10-4) Enrollment levels fluctuate by academic term, with the highest attendance typically occurring during the fall and spring semesters, and lower but consistent enrollment during summer sessions.

Historically, enrollment at Napa Valley College has varied in response to regional demographics, economic conditions, and broader trends in community college attendance. While the College serves a smaller total population than larger regional institutions, it continues to provide critical educational services to Napa County residents and maintains a stable core student population. The combination of full-time and parttime enrollment contributes to a dynamic campus environment, with daily population levels varying significantly based on class schedules, program participation, and seasonal academic cycles.

Figure 10-3: Napa Valley College Student Enrollment Numbers CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-16
Figure 10-4: Napa Valley College Staff Occupational Categories

10.2.4 Dependent & Disabled Populations
This section describes the demographic characteristics of Napa Valley College to inform hazard mitigation planning and support risk reduction strategies. Natural hazards affect populations both physically and socially, and demographic composition plays a critical role in how impacts are experienced and distributed, particularly among populations that may face greater challenges in preparedness, response, and recovery.

Understanding the social and economic characteristics of the campus population also helps assess potential impacts associated with damage to buildings, infrastructure, essential services, and transportation systems.

Evaluation of demographic data helps identify populations and campus subgroups that may be more vulnerable to hazard events. In the context of all hazards preparedness and response, at risk individuals, often referred to as vulnerable populations or individuals with access and functional needs, are defined federally as including children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals who may require additional support during emergencies (42 U.S.C. § 2802(b)(4)(B)). This may include individuals who are economically disadvantaged, living with disabilities, dependent on caregivers, from historically underserved communities, have limited English proficiency, lack reliable transportation, are experiencing housing insecurity, or have chronic medical conditions.

At Napa Valley College, students, faculty, and staff may experience varying levels of vulnerability based on factors such as age, income, disability status, housing conditions, and commuting patterns. The College serves a diverse and partially transient population, including students who may travel from across the region or reside in on campus housing. These factors can influence the ability of individuals to receive emergency notifications, evacuate safely, or recover following a hazard event. Vulnerability is dynamic and CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-17
may vary depending on the type of hazard; for example, flooding that disrupts regional transportation networks may disproportionately affect commuting students and staff, while power outages may have greater impacts on residential populations and those with medical needs.

The Napa County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan addresses many of these vulnerabilities at the community and regional level, while this Napa Valley College Annex focuses on conditions specific to the campus environment. Together, these efforts support the prioritization of mitigation actions that enhance life safety, maintain continuity of operations, and reduce disproportionate impacts on vulnerable populations.

Additional discussion of vulnerable populations, access and functional needs, and related considerations is provided in Volume 1, Section 1.5.3.6.

10.2.5 Regional Income & Housing Demographics
Low-income students and households connected to Napa Valley College face disproportionate financial burdens related to disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. Unexpected costs associated with hazard events can act as tipping points for students already managing tuition, housing, food insecurity, or the risk of displacement. Many students and their families are renters or live in shared housing, limiting their ability to invest in structural improvements or carry adequate insurance. As a result, those with the greatest exposure to hazard impacts are often the least equipped to absorb losses and recover quickly.

At Napa Valley College, this vulnerability extends beyond the classroom. Disruptions caused by hazard events such as flooding, wildfire, or power outages can affect students’ ability to access housing, transportation, employment, and digital connectivity. These disruptions may force students to miss classes, delay coursework, or withdraw from their studies altogether. Given Napa County’s history of wildfire events and periodic flooding, these risks are both immediate and recurring.

Addressing these challenges requires inclusive and equity-focused mitigation planning that improves access to preparedness resources, strengthens continuity of operations, and supports student retention during and after disasters. By integrating equity into hazard mitigation strategies, Napa Valley College can enhance resilience for its campus population while supporting the broader community it serves.

Student Economic Profile
Napa Valley College serves a student population with notable financial vulnerability, as reflected in the distribution of financial aid and award discount trends by income group. Figure 10-5 illustrates the average award discount by income range over time, with Napa Valley College shown in red relative to peer institutions. The average award discount represents the share of total educational costs offset by grants and scholarships.

The data indicate that students in the lowest income brackets receive the highest levels of financial support, with award discounts generally exceeding 25 percent and in some years approaching or exceeding 30 percent. For moderate-income groups, award discounts are lower but still substantial, while higher-income CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-18
groups receive comparatively limited financial assistance. In 2023, the College’s award discount remains most pronounced among lower-income students, consistent with targeted financial aid policies that prioritize need-based assistance.

While Napa Valley College’s award discount is generally comparable to peer institutions, it trends slightly lower in some income categories, particularly among middle-income groups. This suggests that although financial aid is widely distributed, there may still be gaps in affordability for certain student populations.

Overall, the distribution of financial aid reinforces that a significant portion of the student body relies on grant-based assistance to access higher education. This reliance indicates that many students meet federal and state definitions of low-income or financially vulnerable populations, which has direct implications for hazard preparedness and recovery. Students with limited financial resources are less likely to have savings, insurance, or flexible housing options, increasing their susceptibility to disruption during hazard events.

Figure 10-5: Napa Valley College Average Award Discount by Income This reliance on grant-based assistance suggests that a substantial portion of Napa Valley College students meet federal and state definitions of low-income or financially vulnerable populations. While detailed household income data is limited, the distribution of financial aid and higher award discount levels among lower-income groups indicate that many students face ongoing economic constraints.

Pell Grant eligibility, a widely recognized indicator of low-income status, is prevalent among community college populations statewide and is reflected in the higher levels of financial support provided to students in the lowest income brackets. Nationally, Pell Grant recipients typically come from households earning less than $40,000 annually, and similar patterns are evident at Napa Valley College, where financial aid is concentrated among students with the greatest economic need.

Financial instability has direct implications for hazard preparedness and recovery. Students already balancing tuition, transportation, childcare, and housing costs are less likely to have financial reserves, insurance coverage, or flexible living arrangements. As a result, hazard events such as flooding, wildfire, or CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-19
power outages can quickly escalate into significant disruptions. Students who are renters, housing insecure, or supporting dependents are particularly vulnerable, as even short-term impacts may lead to displacement or interruption of their education.

For Napa Valley College, these conditions highlight that hazard events do not only affect physical infrastructure but also pose a risk to student retention and continuity of operations. Addressing these vulnerabilities through targeted outreach, resource coordination, and equitable mitigation strategies is essential to support both individual resilience and institutional stability.

10.2.6 Housing
Housing conditions are a key factor influencing vulnerability for the Napa Valley College population. While many community colleges rely entirely on off-campus housing, Napa Valley College now includes oncampus student housing through River Trail Village, which opened in 2024. This development provides furnished residential units, including dormitory-style housing and apartments designed to accommodate both individual students and student families. The addition of on-campus housing represents a significant enhancement to the College’s ability to support student stability and continuity during hazard events.

Despite this advancement, a large portion of the student population continues to rely on the regional housing market within Napa County and surrounding jurisdictions. The local housing market is characterized by high costs, limited availability, and a substantial renter population. Many students live in shared housing, commute from neighboring communities, or reside in more affordable areas that may be more exposed to hazards such as flooding, wildfire, or limited infrastructure capacity. These conditions can increase vulnerability while also limiting the ability of residents to implement structural mitigation measures.

Students residing in River Trail Village benefit from newer construction built to current building and seismic standards, as well as proximity to campus services and emergency resources. However, concentrated residential populations on campus also introduce additional planning considerations, including evacuation, shelter-in-place capabilities, and continuity of essential services such as power, water, and communications during hazard events.

Housing insecurity remains a concern for portions of the student population. Some students may experience overcrowding, temporary living arrangements, or risk of displacement, all of which can be exacerbated during disasters. Hazard events that damage housing stock or disrupt utilities may result in prolonged displacement and interruptions to educational continuity, particularly for low-income students and those with limited financial resources.

In addition, the geographic distribution of off-campus housing creates reliance on regional transportation corridors such as State Route 29 and Silverado Trail. These routes are susceptible to flooding, wildfire impacts, and congestion during emergency events, which can limit access to campus and disrupt both response and recovery operations.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-20
From a hazard mitigation perspective, Napa Valley College must address both on-campus and off-campus housing vulnerabilities. On-campus, this includes ensuring that River Trail Village is integrated into emergency planning, evacuation procedures, and backup utility strategies. Off-campus, mitigation efforts rely on coordination with local jurisdictions, housing providers, and community organizations. Public education, emergency notification systems, and partnerships to support temporary housing and recovery resources are essential components of a comprehensive approach.

Ensuring housing resilience is critical not only for life safety but also for maintaining continuity of operations and supporting student retention during and after hazard events.

10.2.7 Race, Ethnicity & Language
Natural disasters compound racial disparities; non-white individuals and communities receive less recovery aid from FEMA than their white counterparts, even where the amount of damage is the same. (Howell & Elliott, 2019) (National Advisory Council, 2020) These disparities are evidence of the complicated relationship between disaster recovery and overlapping social vulnerabilities including race, income, language, and health. Black and Latinx residents are more likely to be low income and renters, conditions which create barriers to navigating FEMA’s Individual Assistance programs. Communities with more nonwhite residents may have lower tax revenue and property values, which means less investment in mitigation and rebuilding efforts before and after an emergency.

Napa Valley College serves a diverse student population that reflects both the demographics of Napa County and the broader regional workforce. In 2023, Hispanic or Latino students represented the largest share of enrollment at approximately 48.6%, followed by White students at 23.4% and Asian students at 12.9%.

Additional groups include students identifying as Two or More Races at 5.6%, Black or African American at

4.0%, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander at approximately 0.5%, and American Indian or Alaska Native at approximately 0.3%. Approximately 4.6% of students did not report their race or ethnicity. Overall, more than 75% of the student population identifies as students of color, highlighting Napa Valley College’s role as a majority-minority serving institution.

Compared to national averages for community colleges, Napa Valley College enrolls a higher proportion of Hispanic or Latino students and a lower proportion of White students, reflecting regional demographic patterns and the College’s role in serving historically underrepresented populations. This diversity has important implications for hazard mitigation planning, particularly in ensuring that preparedness, response, and recovery strategies are culturally appropriate, accessible, and inclusive of individuals with limited English proficiency or other access and functional needs.

The College also serves a largely commuter and nontraditional student population, with many students balancing employment, family responsibilities, and academic commitments. A significant portion of students attend part-time, which can influence their availability during emergencies and their ability to receive timely notifications or access campus resources. These factors underscore the importance of CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-21
flexible communication strategies, multilingual outreach, and coordination with community partners to ensure effective hazard response and recovery.

10.2.8 Growth Trends & Future Development
Napa Valley College’s physical development is guided by a long-range planning framework established in the Facilities Master Plan, which emphasizes strategic reinvestment in existing assets, modernization of aging facilities, and targeted expansion to support evolving educational programs. The main campus, encompassing approximately 141 acres with about 95 acres developed, retains a largely established footprint, with future development focused on optimizing land use, improving functionality, and enhancing resilience rather than large-scale outward expansion.

Consistent with this approach, capital improvements prioritize renovation, reconfiguration, and replacement of existing facilities to address deferred maintenance, meet current code requirements, and support instructional needs. The Facilities Master Plan identifies a series of modernization projects across multiple academic buildings (including Buildings 800, 1200, 1400, 1600, and 1800), which include upgrades to building systems, reconfiguration of classroom space, and improvements to instructional technology. These efforts are intended to enhance operational efficiency, increase flexibility of learning environments, and ensure compliance with current safety and accessibility standards.

In addition to modernization, the College has identified targeted new construction projects to address programmatic gaps and reduce reliance on temporary or modular facilities. Planned projects include development of new instructional buildings, expanded laboratory space for physical sciences and career technical education programs, and consolidation of student services into more functional and accessible configurations. These projects are designed to align with the Educational Master Plan and support projected enrollment and workforce training needs.

Facility planning at Napa Valley College also incorporates a lifecycle cost perspective through its Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) framework. This approach evaluates not only initial construction costs but also longterm operational, maintenance, and replacement costs associated with facilities. The TCO Assessment highlights the importance of proactive reinvestment, noting that aging infrastructure and deferred maintenance can significantly increase lifecycle costs and reduce system reliability if not addressed. The District currently maintains over 510,000 square feet of building space across its campuses, with ongoing needs for repair, replacement, and system upgrades to sustain safe and effective operations.

A key metric used in facility planning is the Facility Condition Index (FCI), which compares repair costs to replacement value to inform decisions on whether to rehabilitate or replace structures. Industry standards indicate that as facilities approach an FCI of 0.30, deterioration becomes noticeable, and at approximately

0.50, full replacement or major renovation becomes more cost-effective. This framework supports prioritization of capital investments and helps guide hazard mitigation strategies by identifying vulnerable or aging infrastructure.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-22
Infrastructure systems—including water, sewer, stormwater, and energy—also represent critical components of campus development planning. Much of the existing underground utility infrastructure dates to earlier phases of campus construction and includes materials such as transite piping, which are susceptible to failure due to age, ground movement, and root intrusion. Additionally, portions of the campus, including athletic facilities, are located in lower-lying areas and are subject to periodic flooding during significant storm events. These conditions underscore the need for continued infrastructure upgrades and integration of hazard mitigation measures into capital improvement planning.

Overall, Napa Valley College’s development strategy reflects a shift toward resilience-focused reinvestment, emphasizing modernization, lifecycle asset management, and targeted expansion. This approach is consistent with FEMA hazard mitigation planning principles, which prioritize reducing long-term risk through sustainable design, infrastructure reliability, and informed capital planning.

10.3 Planning Process
The Napa Valley College Jurisdictional Planning Team followed the planning process detailed in Volume 1, Section 2, including participating in the county-wide Hazard Mitigation Planning Team (HMPT) and formulating their own internal planning team to support the broader planning process.

The College’s representatives assisted with stakeholder and public engagement efforts alongside the Consultant Team, with assistance from the county-wide HMPT and their internal planning team. This engagement process is described in Volume 1. Specifically, for the Napa Valley College, this included postings to the city website and social media, and outreach events, as documented in Appendix B. Examples of Key Stakeholders engaged by Napa County on behalf of the city with relevance to the development of College’s mitigation strategy include the USDA and other federal agencies; CAL FIRE and other state agencies; other jurisdictions; community-based organizations such as local Chamber of Commerce chapters; utility providers like PG&E; UC Davis and other academia; and local businesses.

All Key Stakeholders that were invited to participate in the planning process are listed in Volume 1, Section 2, and the input received from stakeholders was integrated into the college’s annex, as described in Volume 1 Table 2-9. The college’s internal planning team participants, their positions, and how they participated in the planning process are shown in Table 10-1.

Table 10-1: Napa Valley College Planning Team and Steering Group Members Team Members Title Description of Involvement
Amber Wade Chief of Police Lead Point-of-Contact, HMPT #1, and #3, BO #1 and #2 Miguel Vargas Director of Facilities (former) Kick-Off Meeting; Participating Stakeholder, BO #2 Samantha Maddox Facilities Planning Manager Participating Stakeholder, BO #2 Matt Christensen Director of Facilities (former) Participating Stakeholder Brooke Jackson Participating Stakeholder
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-23
The college participated in a comprehensive hazard mitigation planning process as part of the 2026 Napa County MJHMP update. This included a series of breakout meetings, listed in Table 10-2 that engaged the district’s planning team, which included key city personnel and stakeholders in evaluating hazards, identifying local vulnerabilities, and prioritizing mitigation strategies.

The process began with a County-Wide Steering Group Kickoff Meeting on February 28, 2024. This initial meeting focused on welcoming participants, establishing a shared understanding of the project scope and schedule, clarifying roles and responsibilities of the Steering Group, the county-wide Hazard Mitigation Planning Team (HMPT), and individual jurisdictional planning teams, and included a review of key changes since the 2020 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan The meeting set the foundation for coordinated participation throughout the planning effort.

On December 10, 2025, participants engaged in a hexagon mapping activity designed to visually identify mitigation actions that could benefit from or require inter-jurisdictional coordination. These collaborative efforts helped shape a refined set of mitigation alternatives, establish shared planning goals, and align local strategies with FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) funding framework.

Throughout the series of breakout meetings, the Napa Valley College engaged in a structured and collaborative planning process focused on assessing hazard risks, identifying vulnerabilities, and developing targeted mitigation strategies. The meetings began with recaps of the county-wide HMPT meetings to ensure alignment of goals and progress.

During the August 30, 2024, breakout out meeting, discussions concentrated on community engagement outcomes, initial risk assessments, and the integration of demographic data to better understand vulnerable populations. Jurisdictional teams reviewed their specific hazard exposures using the Risk Assessment Mapping Platform (RAMP) and participated in prioritization exercises to identify their top hazards.

The August 18, 2025, breakout meeting shifted toward reviewing local capabilities and defining specific areas of concern, which informed the drafting of problem statements. Teams worked collaboratively to refine mitigation alternatives, align actions with FEMA guidelines, and develop a shortlist of priority mitigation actions and inter-jurisdictional collaboration opportunities.

The meetings also included consensus-building activities around hazard rankings, capabilities, and planned actions, while providing regular updates on the overall project schedule.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-24
Table 10-2: Napa Valley College Planning Team Meetings
Meeting & Date Agenda / Topics Goals / Key Inputs
County-Wide Steering Group and HMPT Kick-off and Meetings #1 & #2 February 28, 2024– July 18, 2024
Napa Valley College
Planning Team
Breakout Meeting #1
August 28, 2024
▪ County-wide HMPT meetings #1 and #2 recaps
▪ Community engagement progress and results
▪ Risk assessment and community vulnerability
▪ Demographics and vulnerable populations
▪ Overview of jurisdiction-specific hazard risks and
exposure
▪ Introduction to Risk Assessment Mapping Platform
(RAMP)
▪ Jurisdiction-specific hazard risk ranking exercise
▪ Project schedule updates and next steps
▪ Consensus on jurisdictionspecific priority hazards
▪ Identify capabilities and
potential mitigation actions
▪ Community engagement
volunteers
County-Wide HMPT Meeting #3
March 25, 2025
Napa Valley College
Planning Team
Breakout Meeting #2
August 19, 2025
▪ Breakout Meeting #1 and HMPT #3 recaps
▪ Review capabilities assessment
▪ Review areas of concern and define problem
statements
▪ Principles of effective mitigation strategies and
actions, and mitigation alternatives
▪ Refine and align jurisdiction-specific mitigation
actions exercise
▪ Project schedule updates and next steps
▪ Consensus on jurisdictionspecific capabilities
▪ Consensus on jurisdictionspecific areas of concern
▪ Consensus on priority
mitigation actions and
collaboration opportunities
▪ Community engagement
volunteers
County-Wide HMPT Meeting #4
December 10, 2025

10.3.1 Public Input & Draft Review
As detailed in Volume 1, Section 2, the draft plan was available for public review and comment from May 15 to June 2, 2026. Public comments received during that time were similar to those gathered throughout the public engagement process, including the need for more equity in the distribution of mitigation activities and funding and the need for enhanced cooperation among jurisdictions, utility providers, and state agencies. These comments were incorporated into the college’s mitigation strategy, as appropriate; although, most were already addressed by the Mitigation Action Plan which was based on previous public input.

Public and stakeholder input was gathered and incorporated throughout the plan development process, before the public review period, such as from the online public survey (see Volume 1, Section 2.1.2 and Appendix B, for details). During the review period, jurisdictional staff and stakeholders that participated in CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-25
the plan development also reviewed the public draft and provided comments on minor corrections and revisions, which were addressed in the final plan.

10.4 What’s New
This section summarizes hazard mitigation planning efforts within the planning area and identifies updates incorporated into the 2026 Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan (MJHMP). Napa Valley College previously participated in prior county MJHMP updates and has also maintained internal planning efforts to guide resilience and risk reduction at the facility and building level. As part of the 2026 update, the College continues its participation in the countywide MJHMP, further integrating its planning efforts within a coordinated regional framework.

This continued participation reflects the College’s commitment to collaborative resilience planning and recognizes that many hazards, including flooding, severe storms, and earthquakes, transcend jurisdictional boundaries. Through the MJHMP process, Napa Valley College has identified its priority hazards, developed hazard-specific problem statements, and advanced actionable mitigation strategies to reduce risk.

By aligning with Napa County and regional partners and leveraging shared resources, the College strengthens its capacity to prepare for, respond to, and recover from hazard events while ensuring continuity of operations and protecting the campus community.

10.4.1 Mitigation Activities
The college has successfully implemented several initiatives aimed at addressing identified vulnerabilities.

Some of these accomplishments are highlighted in this section and have directly contributed to reducing risks from hazards such as flooding, all hazards, and severe weather. These completed projects showcase the college’s ability to effectively plan, fund, and execute measures that protect its residents and infrastructure.

In addition, the college has systematically reviewed and adjusted its mitigation actions, exemplifying adherence to FEMA’s Planning Policy Guide principles and emphasizing the importance of dynamic and adaptive mitigation planning. By fostering partnerships, leveraging funding opportunities, and prioritizing equity in implementation, the college aligns with best practices to build resilience against natural disasters.

This ongoing effort is a testament to the college’s commitment to the principles of risk-informed decisionmaking, equitable resource allocation, and integration with broader regional and state hazard mitigation objectives.

Adjustments to Previous Mitigation Actions
A significant portion of the office’s mitigation efforts remain ongoing or in the pipeline. These actions, ranging from infrastructure upgrades to community outreach initiatives, represent the college’s proactive approach to addressing hazards as resources become available.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-26
Recognizing constraints such as limited funding, staffing, and shifting priorities, the college has reevaluated certain initiatives, leading to their reprioritization or canceling of mitigation actions. Factors such as feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and emerging risks informed these decisions, ensuring alignment with the college’s updated hazard mitigation goals. Adjustments to previous mitigation actions are documented as part of the colleges action plan Table 10-13, and more specific status updates are provided in Table 10-14.

10.4.2 Mitigation Successes
Napa Valley College has taken a proactive and locally driven approach to hazard mitigation, implementing a variety of projects that enhance campus resilience without reliance on FEMA grant funding. Through strategic capital improvements, facility upgrades, and partnerships with technical experts, the College has advanced meaningful risk reduction measures that address its most pressing hazards, particularly earthquakes, flooding, and infrastructure vulnerabilities.

These efforts reflect the College’s ability to integrate mitigation into routine planning, maintenance, and capital investment decisions. By leveraging institutional resources, state funding programs, and internal expertise, Napa Valley College has demonstrated that effective mitigation can be achieved through sustained commitment and thoughtful planning. The following success stories highlight innovative and impactful actions that have strengthened the safety, reliability, and long-term resilience of campus facilities and operations.

Seismic Safety Improvements
Napa Valley College has taken significant steps to reduce earthquake risk through the implementation of seismic
retrofits and structural upgrades across key campus facilities.

Following the 2014 South Napa earthquake, the College
conducted detailed structural assessments and prioritized improvements to older buildings that did not meet current seismic standards. Working with IDA Structural Engineers, the College implemented targeted retrofits to strengthen building systems, improve resistance to seismic forces, and address structural deficiencies.

These upgrades reduced the likelihood of structural and nonstructural damage during future earthquakes, enhancing life safety for students, faculty, and staff. In addition, the improvements support continuity of operations by protecting critical educational facilities and infrastructure. This effort demonstrates Napa Valley College’s commitment to proactive mitigation and long-term resilience in a seismically active region.

Figure 10-6: Barrels and Shelving Collapsed
in Classroom from Earthquake
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-27

10.5 Risk Assessment
This section focuses on profiling hazards specific to the college and assessing vulnerability independent of the broader county-wide planning area, which has been evaluated in Section 3 of Volume 1. The hazard profiles in Volume 1 discuss overall impacts to the planning area and describe relevant plans, policies, and regulations; past events; location; frequency and probability of future occurrences; severity and extent; warning time; secondary hazards; and climate change impacts. For more information on risk assessment methodologies, see Volume 1, Appendix A.

This section includes a tailored vulnerability assessment, analyzing assets at risk such as population, property, and critical facilities and infrastructure unique to the city, and information on city-specific differences in hazard vulnerability across the planning area. It also identifies total city assets at risk, including people, property, and critical facilities and infrastructure within the city. In addition, this section presents growth and development trends for the community, offering insights into vulnerabilities and risks that represent the broader context of assets at risk.

10.5.1 Hazard Screening & Prioritization
Members of the County-Wide Planning Team came together to collaboratively decide which county-wide hazards would be included in the MJHMP, and which would be excluded. Hazard screening and prioritization took place early in the process and integrated historic data, local knowledge, and consensus opinions to create a risk assessment matrix for the county as well as for each participating jurisdiction.

These matrices indicate the priority of hazards prior to further refinement. Details about this process, the results of the discussion, and in-depth profiles for county-wide hazards can be found in Volume 1, Sections 2 and 3.

The college’s internal planning group used the same hazard identification and prioritization process as the county-wide Planning Team. The college’s planning team members reviewed previously prepared hazard mitigation plans and other relevant documents to determine the realm of natural hazards that have the potential to affect the college. Table 10-3 provides a crosswalk of hazards identified in select planning documents, including the 2020 Napa County MJHMP and the 2023 State of California HMP. The crosswalk was used to develop a preliminary hazards list, providing a framework for the group to evaluate which hazards were truly relevant to the college and which ones were not.

The internal planning group then ranked hazards based on their probability of affecting the college and potential impacts on the college assets. Figure 10-7 displays the results of the hazard risk ranking exercise that was performed before further refinement. All hazards have been profiled in Volume 1 of this document.

The purpose of this annex is to specifically address the college’s vulnerability to specifically identified hazards.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-28
Table 10-3: Napa Valley College Document Review of Potential Hazards Hazard 2020 Napa County
MJHMP Emergency Operations Plan 2023 CaliforniaSHMP
Agricultural Pests ■ ■
Avalanche ■
Climate Change ■ ■ ■
Coastal ■
Dam Failure ■ ■
Drought ■ ■ ■
Earthquake / Liquefaction ■ ■ ■
Extreme Cold ■
Extreme Heat ■ ■
Extreme Weather / Storms ■ ■ ■
Flood ■ ■ ■
Geologic / Mass Movement ■ ■ ■
Human-Caused ■
Insects ■
Levee Failure ■
Pandemic Disease ■ ■
Sea Level Rise ■
Soil ■
Subsidence ■
Tornado ■
Tsunami / Seiche Wave ■
Volcano ■
Wildfire ■ ■ ■
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-29
Figure 10-7: Napa Valley College Risk Assessment Matrix Note: Hazard naming in the Risk Assessment Matrix may not match the final naming used. Refer to hazards prioritization summary table.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-30
Priority Hazards
The results of the initial risk ranking exercise completed by the college’s Planning Team, before further refinement, are identified in the county’s completed matrix in Figure 10-7. Table 10-4 provides the final list of priority hazards and subhazards with additional details about why certain hazards were chosen and why others were not prioritized. However, it should be noted that many hazards not prioritized for profiling are briefly discussed as secondary or compounding hazards, and subhazards that were profiled and included in the risk assessment are listed specifically.

Table 10-4: Napa Valley College Hazards Prioritization Summary Hazard Priority Explanation
Earthquake / Liquefaction High Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.4, and Section 10.5.2.2 in this annex, including Liquefaction
Wildfire Medium Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.1, and Section 10.5.2.1 in this annex Flood Medium Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.2, and Section 10.5.2.3 in this annex Levee Failure -
Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.2; not a priority due to low probability and impact potential
Extreme Weather / Storms High
Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.5, and Section 10.5.2.5 in this annex as Severe Weather, including High Wind and Heavy Rain (Winter Weather not a priority due to low probability and impact potential) Drought Medium Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.6, and Section 10.5.2.4 in this annex Geologic / Mass Movement -
Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.5; not a priority due to low probability and impact potential
Extreme Heat Medium Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.8, and Section 10.5.2.6 in this annex Agricultural Pests -
Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.9; not a priority due to being outside jurisdictional mission and authority
Sea Level Rise -
Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.9; not a priority due to low probability and impact potential
Climate Change Medium Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.9, and Section 10.5.2.7 in this annex and discussed as a compounding hazard in relevant profiles
Dam Failure -
Profiled in Volume 1, Section 3.3.3; not a priority due to low probability and impact potential
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-31

10.5.2 Vulnerability to Specific Hazards
Assessing vulnerabilities exposes the unique characteristics of individual hazards and begins the process of narrowing down which areas within the city are vulnerable to specific hazard events. The vulnerability assessment considered unique local knowledge of hazards and impacts and a GIS overlaying method for examining such vulnerabilities in more depth. Using these methods, the college’s planning group estimated vulnerable populations, properties, and assets, and potential losses. In addition, the exposure of city assets to drought, geological, earthquake, wildfire and flood hazards were also considered.

Many of the hazard profiles include a snapshot map and damage estimation tables that illustrate the college’s vulnerabilities to those specific hazards. These maps assisted the planning group in understanding the hazard exposure of populations, parcels, and critical facilities and infrastructure. Each snapshot map contains an exposure summary that displays the percentage of the population, the improvement and content value of parcels, and the amount of critical infrastructure that is exposed. For hazards without geospatial extents, such as drought and severe weather, narratives are provided instead of exposure maps and tables.

Based on the hazard prioritization exercise, this vulnerability assessment focuses on seven hazards for the college, some of which encompass subhazards such as Liquefaction and Heavy Rain Wildfire
SECTION 10.5.2.1
Earthquake
SECTION 10.5.2.2
Flood
SECTION 10.5.2.3
Drought
SECTION 10.5.2.4
Severe Weather
SECTION 10.5.2.5
Extreme Heat
SECTION 10.5.2.6
Climate Change
SECTION 10.5.2.7
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-32
Wildfire Hazard
Wildfire risk at Napa Valley College is primarily associated with its proximity to wildland vegetation and areas mapped within the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI). While the main campus is located within the developed portion of the Napa Valley floor, surrounding open space, agricultural lands, and riparian corridors create conditions where wildfire could impact campus operations, particularly during periods of extreme heat, drought, and wind-driven fire events.

At the main campus, wildfire exposure is concentrated along the western and southern edges of the property, where the campus transitions into open space, vineyard areas, and natural vegetation near the Napa River corridor and Kennedy Park. As shown in Figure 10-8 and Figure 10-9 and summarized in Table 10-5, portions of the campus fall within or adjacent to WUI-designated areas, where fire could spread from vegetated landscapes toward developed facilities. Although urban development and irrigated landscapes provide some buffer, ember cast during wind-driven events remains a primary concern. Spot fires ignited by embers could impact parking areas, landscaped zones, and building perimeters, particularly where defensible space is limited.

The St. Helena campus is located in a more rural and vegetated setting, with greater proximity to hillside fuels and wildland vegetation. This increases the potential for direct flame exposure, radiant heat, and ember intrusion during a wildfire event. Narrow roadways and limited access routes in up-valley areas may also affect emergency response and evacuation timing compared to the main Napa campus.

Across both campuses, wildfire impacts may include disruption to campus operations due to smoke, poor air quality, and precautionary closures, even in the absence of direct fire damage. Critical vulnerabilities include outdoor gathering areas, parking lots, and building edges adjacent to vegetation, as well as utility systems that could be affected by Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) or fire-related outages.

The College’s transient population, including students, staff, and visitors, presents additional challenges for evacuation and emergency communication during rapidly evolving wildfire events. Many individuals on campus may be unfamiliar with evacuation routes or emergency procedures, increasing the importance of clear communication and preparedness measures.

As identified in Problem Statement ps-WF-NVC-180, portions of Napa Valley College are located within the WUI, underscoring the need for continued mitigation actions such as vegetation management, defensible space maintenance, hardening of structures against ember intrusion, and ongoing public education and awareness efforts. By addressing these vulnerabilities, the College can reduce wildfire risk and enhance the safety and resilience of its campus community.

Table 10-5: Napa Valley College Wildfire Exposure
Critical Infrastructure - Wildfire Severity Zone
Infrastructure Type SRA Very
High
LRA Very
High
Very High
Total SRA High LRA High High Total
SRA
Moderate
LRA
Moderate
Moderate
Total
Campus/Building - - - - 1 1 - - -
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-33
Figure 10-8: Napa Valley College Wildfire Risk (Main Campus) CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-34
Figure 10-9: Napa Valley College Wildfire Risk (St. Helena Campus) CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-35
Earthquake Hazard
Napa Valley College is exposed to significant earthquake risk due to its location within a seismically active region influenced by nearby fault systems, including those associated with the 2014 South Napa earthquake.

Ground shaking at the campus is expected to be strong to very strong during a major seismic event, with the potential for widespread impacts to buildings, infrastructure, and campus operations.

Two earthquake scenarios were evaluated to understand potential impacts to the College: a magnitude 6.7 West Napa event and a magnitude 7.1 Hunting Creek Berryessa event. As shown in Figure 10-10 and Figure 10-12 and summarized in Table 10-6 and Table 10-7, both scenarios result in similar exposure conditions at the campus scale. In each case, the Napa Valley floor experiences shaking intensities capable of causing moderate to significant damage. While the geographic distribution and intensity vary slightly between scenarios, the level of impact to Napa Valley College remains comparable.

The main campus includes a mix of building types constructed over multiple decades. Some facilities date back to earlier construction eras and may not have been originally designed to current seismic standards.

Although many buildings have been upgraded or replaced over time, older structures and infrastructure may still be more susceptible to structural damage, nonstructural failures, and functional disruption during strong ground shaking. Variations in subsurface conditions across the campus, particularly between upper and lower elevations, may further influence how seismic forces are experienced at different locations.

A major earthquake could result in casualties, damage to buildings and utilities, and prolonged disruption to campus operations. Potential impacts include loss of instructional space, damage to laboratory equipment, hazardous material releases, and interruption of water, power, and communications systems.

Even moderate structural damage could render key facilities unusable, affecting the College’s ability to maintain continuity of operations. Disruptions to surrounding transportation corridors and regional infrastructure may further delay emergency response and recovery.

The College supports a large and dynamic daytime population that includes students, faculty, staff, and visitors. Many individuals on campus may be unfamiliar with emergency procedures or may require additional assistance during evacuation or sheltering. This transient population increases the importance of preparedness, training, and effective emergency communication systems.

In addition to physical vulnerabilities, evolving building codes and seismic design standards require periodic evaluation of existing facilities to ensure they meet current safety expectations. Continued investment in seismic retrofits, code compliance, and campus-wide preparedness measures remains essential to reducing earthquake risk.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-36
Table 10-6: Napa Valley College Earthquake Exposure (M6.7 West Napa) Critical Infrastructure - M6.7 West Napa
Infrastructure Type VIII - Severe VII - Very Strong VI - Strong V - Moderate Campus/Building 32 - 1 -
Table 10-7: Napa Valley College Earthquake Exposure (M7.1 Hunting Creek Berryessa) Critical Infrastructure - M7.1 Hunting Creek Berryessa
Infrastructure Type VIII - Severe VII - Very Strong VI - Strong Campus/Building - - 33
Liquefaction
Portions of the Napa Valley College main campus are located in areas with moderate to high liquefaction susceptibility, particularly in lower-lying areas near the Napa River and adjacent alluvial soils. As shown in Figure 10-14 and Figure 10-15, these areas are underlain by younger, saturated soils that may lose strength during strong ground shaking.

Liquefaction occurs when saturated, unconsolidated soils behave like a liquid under seismic loading. This can result in ground settlement, lateral spreading, and loss of bearing capacity beneath structures and infrastructure. Areas west of the campus and near Kennedy Park exhibit higher liquefaction potential, with localized zones extending toward the lower portions of the campus. Variability in soil conditions across the campus increases the potential for uneven ground movement during an earthquake.

Liquefaction-related impacts may damage building foundations, underground utilities, roadways, and drainage systems, even in areas where structural shaking damage is otherwise limited. Infrastructure such as water, sewer, and electrical systems may be particularly vulnerable to displacement or rupture.

While not all areas of the campus are equally susceptible, the presence of liquefiable soils in lower elevation zones underscores the need for site-specific geotechnical considerations in future development and retrofit projects. Mitigation strategies such as ground improvement, deep foundations, and flexible utility connections can help reduce the risk of damage associated with liquefaction. In addition, liquefaction risks off campus may impact transportation infrastructure and impede access for students and faculty.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-37
Figure 10-10: Napa Valley College Earthquake Risk (M6.7 West Napa) (Main Campus) CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-38
Figure 10-11: Napa Valley College Earthquake Risk (M6.7 West Napa) (St. Helena Campus) CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-39
Figure 10-12: Napa Valley College Earthquake Risk (M7.1 Hunting Creek Berryessa) (Main Campus) CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-40
Figure 10-13: Napa Valley College Earthquake Risk (M7.1 Hunting Creek Berryessa) (St. Helena Campus) CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-41
Figure 10-14: Napa Valley College Liquefaction Risk (Main Campus) CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-42
Figure 10-15: Napa Valley College Liquefaction Risk (St. Helena Campus) CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-43
Flood Hazard
Flooding presents a localized but meaningful hazard for Napa Valley College, particularly at the main campus, which is situated on the Napa Valley floor in close proximity to the Napa River and adjacent drainage features. As shown in Figure 10-16 and Figure 10-17 and summarized in Table 10-8, portions of the campus extend into mapped 100-year and 500-year flood hazard areas, with the highest risk concentrated along the western and northwestern edges of the campus near Kennedy Park and the river corridor.

The campus setting reflects a transition from higher ground near the eastern portions of the site to lower elevation areas toward the river. These lower-lying areas are more susceptible to overbank flooding, ponding, and backwater effects during major storm events. Flooding in this area is influenced by a combination of riverine overflow, high groundwater conditions, and constrained drainage capacity, particularly during intense winter storms and atmospheric river events when runoff volumes exceed system capacity.

While the core academic and administrative buildings are generally located outside of the most hazardous floodway areas, several campus facilities, open spaces, and circulation routes are located within or adjacent to mapped flood zones. Flooding in these areas could result in temporary inundation of roadways, parking areas, athletic fields, and utility systems, potentially limiting site access and disrupting campus operations.

As shown on the exposure maps, critical access routes connecting the campus to Silverado Trail and surrounding road networks may also be affected, which could delay emergency response or evacuation during a flood event.

In addition to on-campus impacts, flooding along the Napa River and surrounding low-lying areas may disrupt regional transportation corridors and lifeline infrastructure that serve the College. These off-site impacts can isolate the campus, affect student and staff access, and prolong recovery following a major storm event. The College’s proximity to agricultural lands and open space also increases the potential for debris, sediment, and localized drainage issues to influence flood behavior on and near the site.

Although large-scale structural flooding of core campus buildings appears limited under mapped conditions, the presence of flood-prone areas at the campus periphery highlights the importance of site drainage management, infrastructure resilience, and emergency access planning. Future changes in precipitation intensity, watershed conditions, and potential climate-driven increases in extreme storm events may expand the extent or frequency of flooding in these areas.

Overall, Napa Valley College’s flood vulnerability is characterized by moderate exposure concentrated in lower elevation and peripheral areas of the campus, with primary risks related to access disruption, infrastructure impacts, and localized inundation rather than widespread structural damage. Continued coordination with regional flood management efforts and targeted on-site mitigation will be important to maintaining campus functionality during flood events.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-44
Table 10-8: Napa Valley College Flood Exposure
Infrastructure Type Flood Fringe Floodway 100-YR Total 500-YR sans 100-YR 500-YR Total
Campus/Building - - - 2 2
National Flood Insurance Program
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) makes federally backed flood insurance available to homeowners, renters, and business owners in participating communities. FEMA has prepared a detailed Flood Insurance Study (FIS) for Napa County and municipalities. The study presents water surface elevations for floods of various magnitudes, including the 1% annual chance flood (100-YR flood) and the

0.2% annual chance flood (500-YR flood). Base flood elevations and the boundaries of the 100- and 500-YR floodplains are shown on Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), which are the principal tools for identifying the extent and location of the flood hazard. FIRMs are the most detailed and consistent data source available, and for many communities they represent the minimum area of oversight under their floodplain management program. See Section 4 of Volume 1 for general information on the NFIP.

Napa Valley College is not a county or a municipality and, thus, is not eligible to participate in NFIP. Volume 1 describes Napa County’s participation in NFIP.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-45

Figure 10-16: Napa Valley College Flood Risk (Main Campus) CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-46

Figure 10-17: Napa Valley College Flood Risk (St. Helena Campus) CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-47
Drought Hazard
The National Drought Monitor provides drought data and maps nationally and on a localized, watershed scale. The National Drought Monitor is the product of 11 agencies, including the NDMC, NOAA and USDA, and is available at http://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/. The National Drought Monitor categorizes the level of drought from D0 through D4, with D4 being the highest “exceptional drought.” Table 10-9 depicts drought classifications and impacts from the level of drought occurrence in California, while Figure 10-18 shows a time series of the level of drought in Napa County from 2000 to 2025 according to the National Drought Monitor.

Drought is a recurring and long-term hazard affecting Napa Valley College due to the region’s Mediterranean climate, characterized by highly seasonal precipitation and extended dry periods. Prolonged intervals of below-average rainfall, reduced Sierra Nevada snowpack, and elevated temperatures can strain regional water supplies and affect the College’s operations and surrounding environment. While drought does not typically result in immediate physical damage to campus facilities, its cumulative effects can be significant and long-lasting.

Napa Valley College relies on regional water systems that are sensitive to drought conditions. Extended dry periods can reduce available water supplies, increase demand during hotter conditions, and place stress on water delivery infrastructure. In response, water conservation measures may be implemented, affecting campus landscaping, irrigation, and facility operations. These conditions may also require operational adjustments to maintain campus functions while complying with regional water use restrictions.

Drought conditions can also exacerbate other hazards that affect the College. Dry vegetation and surrounding open space areas, including nearby agricultural lands and natural landscapes, may experience increased fire risk during prolonged drought periods. Reduced soil moisture can contribute to soil instability and erosion, particularly when drought conditions are followed by intense rainfall events. In addition, degradation of nearby riparian areas associated with the Napa River may reduce natural flood attenuation capacity, indirectly influencing flood risk near the campus.

The economic and social effects of drought can also influence the College community. Increased utility costs and regional economic impacts, particularly in the agricultural sector, may affect students, faculty, and staff. Vulnerable populations within the campus community, including low-income students and those experiencing housing or financial instability, may be disproportionately impacted by rising costs and resource constraints during prolonged drought conditions.

Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and severity of drought in California, with longer dry periods and more variable precipitation patterns. These trends create ongoing uncertainty in water supply reliability and highlight the importance of water conservation, sustainable campus operations, and longterm resilience planning at Napa Valley College.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-48
Table 10-9: Drought Classifications and Impacts
Category Description Possible Impacts
D0
Abnormally
Dry
▪ Soil is dry; irrigation delivery begins early
▪ Dryland crop germination is stunted
▪ Active fire season begins
D1
Moderate
Drought
▪ Dryland pasture growth is stunted; producers give supplemental feed to cattle ▪ Landscaping and gardens need irrigation earlier; wildlife patterns begin to change ▪ Stock ponds and creeks are lower than usual
D2
Severe
Drought
▪ Producers increase water efficiency methods and drought-resistant crops ▪ Grazing land inadequate
▪ Fire season is longer, with high burn intensity, dry fuels, and large fire spatial extent, more fire crews on staff
▪ Lake- and river-based tourism declines; boat ramps close ▪ Trees are stressed; plants increase reproductive mechanisms; wildlife diseases increase
▪ Water temperatures increase; programs to divert water to protect fish begin ▪ River flows decrease; reservoir levels are low and banks are exposed D3
Extreme
Drought
▪ Federal water is not adequate to meet irrigation contracts; extracting supplemental groundwater is expensive
▪ Fire season lasts year-round; fires occur in typically wet parts of the state; burn bans are implemented
▪ Ski and rafting business are low; mountain communities suffer ▪ Low water levels impede fish migration and cause lower survival rates ▪ Wildlife encroaches on developed areas; little native food and water is available for bears, which hibernate less
▪ Water sanitation is a concern; reservoir levels drop significantly; surface water is nearly dry; flows are very low; water theft occurs
▪ Livestock need supplemental feed, cattle and horses are sold; little pasture remains ▪ Well and aquifer levels decrease; homeowners drill new wells D4
Exceptional
Drought
▪ Fire season is very costly; number of fires and areas burned are extensive ▪ Many recreational activities are affected
▪ Fields are left fallow; orchards are removed; vegetable yields are low; honey harvest is small; agricultural unemployment is high, food aid is needed ▪ Fish rescue and relocation begin; pine beetle infestation occurs; forest mortality is high; wetlands dry up; wildlife death is widespread; algae blooms appear ▪ Poor air quality affects health: greenhouse gas emissions increase as hydropower production decreases; West Nile outbreaks rise
▪ Water shortages are widespread; surface water is depleted; federal irrigation water deliveries are curtailed; water prices are extremely high; wells are dry, more and deeper wells are drilled; water quality is poor
Source: Adapted from U.S. Drought Monitor Drought Classifications and Impacts CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-49
Figure 10-18: Drought Severity Timeline 2000-2025
Severe Weather Hazard
Although the college benefits from a Mediterranean climate with some moderating marine influence from San Pablo Bay, the community remains vulnerable to a range of severe weather hazards, including high wind events and heavy rainfall. While these hazards may occur less frequently or with lower intensity than hazards such as wildfire or earthquake, they can still result in significant impacts to college infrastructure, services, and students and staff.

High Wind
High wind events are a recurring severe weather hazard affecting Napa Valley College, particularly during winter storm systems and offshore wind conditions. Winds may be funneled through the Napa Valley and adjacent hills, producing localized gusts that can impact the campus and surrounding areas. These events have the potential to damage buildings, disrupt campus operations, and create safety hazards for students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

On campus, high winds may result in downed trees, fallen branches, and debris that can block internal roadways, parking areas, and pedestrian pathways. Damage to overhead utilities and nearby electrical infrastructure can lead to power outages, affecting classroom instruction, administrative functions, and critical systems such as communications and safety equipment. Outdoor features, including athletic facilities, signage, and temporary structures, may be particularly vulnerable to wind damage.

High winds can also exacerbate other hazards affecting the College. During dry conditions, strong winds can increase wildfire risk in surrounding open space and agricultural areas by accelerating fire spread and transporting embers. In addition, falling debris and reduced visibility during wind events may create hazardous conditions along key access routes such as Napa Vallejo Highway and surrounding roadways, potentially limiting emergency access or delaying evacuation.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-50
Although most campus buildings are constructed to modern codes, localized vulnerabilities may exist in older structures, roofing systems, and exterior elements. The College’s reliance on safe access, reliable power, and outdoor circulation areas highlights the importance of ongoing maintenance, vegetation management, and emergency preparedness to reduce risks associated with high wind events.

Heavy Rain
Napa Valley College is exposed to severe winter storm events that can produce heavy rainfall, localized flooding, and hazardous site conditions. These events are often associated with atmospheric river systems that bring prolonged and intense precipitation to the Napa Valley, increasing the potential for drainage system exceedance and localized inundation both on and adjacent to the campus.

Heavy rainfall can result in saturated soils across the campus and surrounding areas, particularly in lowerlying portions of the site near the Napa River and adjacent open space. These conditions may lead to ponding in parking areas, reduced effectiveness of stormwater infrastructure, and localized erosion or sediment transport. While the campus is not located in steep hillside terrain, intense rainfall following dry periods may still contribute to minor slope instability or soil movement in landscaped and undeveloped areas.

Severe storm events may also include short-duration high intensity rainfall, lightning, and occasional hail, all of which can pose risks to campus facilities, outdoor infrastructure, and personal safety. Impacts to buildings are generally limited, but roof drainage systems, exterior features, and utility connections may be stressed during peak storm conditions.

Heavy rain events often occur in combination with high winds, increasing the likelihood of power outages, fallen trees, and debris. These combined impacts can disrupt campus operations, limit access to and from the site, and affect critical functions such as communications, lighting, and instructional continuity.

Flooded roadways and debris along key access routes, including Napa Vallejo Highway and surrounding local streets, may further constrain emergency response and evacuation.

The College’s large daytime population, including students, faculty, staff, and visitors, may face challenges during severe weather events, particularly those unfamiliar with campus emergency procedures or dependent on reliable transportation and communication systems. As a result, effective stormwater management, infrastructure maintenance, and emergency preparedness planning are essential to reducing risks associated with heavy rainfall and ensuring continuity of campus operations.

Extreme Heat Hazard
Within Napa County, geographic patterns in extreme heat are mostly influenced by topography. Napa County’s climate is influenced by its location between mountain ranges and proximity to San Pablo Bay, which typically provides some moderation of temperature extremes. While extreme heat days are defined by localized variation from norms, the inland valley areas tend to experience higher temperatures than coastal or mountain areas. That being said, air conditioning systems are less prevalent in the county, CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-51
including in older school buildings, and the population may be less adapted to higher temperatures compared to regions which regularly experience high heat events.

However, despite the marine and mountain influences present, the county is increasingly experiencing periods of elevated temperatures, particularly during late summer and early fall when offshore flow conditions reduce coastal cooling effects. In recent decades, Napa has seen an increase in the frequency, duration, and intensity of extreme heat events, a trend that is expected to continue under changing climate conditions. Statewide events, including those in 2017 and 2020, resulted in prolonged periods of high temperatures across inland portions of the Bay Area, including the Napa Valley. During these events, temperatures in Napa exceeded typical seasonal norms and, in some cases, approached or exceeded 100°F for multiple consecutive days.

Although Napa County is mostly rural, there are clusters of highly urbanized areas, including the Cities of Napa and St. Helena where NVC’s two campuses are located. Urbanized areas experience higher temperatures than natural landscapes, creating localized pockets of higher temperatures known as heat islands. Roads and conventional building materials reflect less solar energy and absorb and re-emit more heat compared to trees and other vegetation. Heat islands can build throughout the day and worsen immediately after sunset as heat is slowly released from pavement and building material. Urban heat islands disproportionately affect low-income urban populations and people of color, communities who are more likely to occupy older, higher density housing stock with lower urban forest cover and less access to air conditioning.

Napa’s valley setting contributes to heat retention, particularly during periods of high pressure and low wind, when warm air becomes trapped and nighttime cooling is limited. These conditions can result in extended heat events that persist over several days, increasing cumulative stress on residents, infrastructure, and natural systems. Unlike areas immediately adjacent to the Bay, portions of Napa experience more pronounced temperature extremes due to reduced marine influence and localized topographic effects.

Climate projections indicate that the county is likely to experience a substantial increase in both the number of extreme heat days and warm nights over time. Extreme heat days, defined as those exceeding historically high temperature thresholds, are expected to become more frequent, while warm nights will reduce opportunities for overnight cooling, compounding heat-related stress on vulnerable populations.

According to the Cal-Adapt extreme heat days and warm nights tool using a medium emissions scenario (RCP 4.5), the City of Napa will likely experience a climate change-driven increase in extreme heat days from four days per year to 15 days per year by the end of the century. Similarly, St. Helena’s number of extreme heat days are projected to increase from four to 18 per year. Over the same time period, both the cities are also likely to see an increase in warm nights, from four per year to 42 nights for Napa and 25 nights for St. Helena. Table 10-10 explains the extreme heat event thresholds for the Cities of Napa and St. Helena.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-52
Table 10-10: Cal-Adapt Extreme Heat Terms and Thresholds Term Cal-Adapt Definition
Thresholds for
City of Napa City of St. Helena
Extreme
Heat Day
Defined as a day in a year when the daily maximum/minimum temperature exceeds the 98th percentile of daily
maximum/minimum temperatures based on observed historical data from 1961-1990 between April and October.

99.2°F 100.4°F
Warm Night
Defined as a day in April through October when daily minimum temperature exceeds the 98th historical percentile of daily minimum temperatures, based on observed data from 1961-1990 between April and October.

59.3°F 62.1°F
Heat Wave Defined as four consecutive days or nights above the extreme heat / warm night threshold.
3 days ≥ 99.2°F
or 4 nights ≥

59.3°F
3 days ≥ 100.4°F
or 4 nights ≥

62.1°F
Source: Cal-Adapt Extreme Heat Days and Warm Nights Tool Impacts on Students & Staff
Student and staff health risks are the most immediate concern, with vulnerable populations such as lowincome or homeless students or those who are medically fragile, at elevated risk of heat-related illnesses.

Among the county’s vulnerable populations, lower-income students or staff living in older homes without air conditioning may be more exposed to heat events than others if nighttime temperatures remain high. In addition, some older school buildings may lack adequate air conditioning to address climate change-driven temperature increases. Heat impacts students and staff physically and mentally, especially if they are further exposed to heat throughout the day or night, and can disrupt educational operations, cause sickness, or even death in extreme cases such as while exercising outdoors.

From an infrastructure perspective, heat waves stress the power grid, raising the likelihood of blackouts that can leave campus buildings without cooling options. Prolonged extreme heat can also damage roads and utilities, as well as strain HVAC systems in school buildings and other critical facilities. Parks, athletic fields, and outdoor programs may face closures due to unsafe conditions, impacting community services and recreation.

Cascading Effects
Extreme heat can contribute to and exacerbate other hazards within Napa County. Prolonged high temperatures dry vegetation and increase wildfire risk in surrounding areas, while also contributing to degraded air quality, particularly during regional wildfire events. Heat can also intensify drought conditions by increasing evaporation rates and water demand, placing additional stress on local water resources.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-53
Climate Change Hazard
NVC and its campuses face increasing exposure to climate-related hazards that are expected to influence both the frequency and severity of existing risks. Changes in temperature, precipitation patterns, and seasonal variability are projected to intensify hazards such as extreme heat, drought, flooding, wildfire, and severe storms, all of which have the potential to disrupt educational services and affect school operations across Napa County. Because NVC operates a distributed network of facilities, these impacts may vary by location but collectively represent a systemwide vulnerability.

Increased Annual Temperatures
Average annual temperatures across most of California have already increased by more than 1°F, with some areas experiencing rises of over 2°F when comparing the 1901–1960 average to that of 1986–2016. Daily maximum temperatures—a key indicator of extreme heat—are projected to increase by 4.4°F to 5.8°F by 2050 and by 5.6°F to 8.8°F by 2100. Heat waves that impact public health, known as heat-health events, are also expected to intensify across the state. By 2050, these events are projected to last up to two weeks longer in the Central Valley and occur four to ten times more often in the Northern Sierra region (California Natural Resources Agency, 2022).

California is already experiencing significant impacts from climate change, including prolonged drought, a lengthened wildfire season, increased coastal flooding and erosion, and widespread tree mortality. The state has observed rising average temperatures, more extreme heat days, fewer cold nights, a longer growing season, and shifts in the water cycle, with less winter precipitation falling as snow. In addition, summertime fog has declined by approximately 33%, and both snowmelt and rainwater runoff are occurring earlier in the year (Cal OES, 2018).

Long-term trends indicate a 12% to 20% decline in fog across California from 1900 through projections to 2070. Climate experts suggest that warming temperatures reduce the ability of air masses to cool enough to produce fog, which plays a critical role in supporting California’s ecosystems (Grantham, Teodore; University of California, Berkeley, 2018).

These statewide trends have localized implications for the Napa Valley College and its associated campuses due to their location within the Napa Valley. The valley setting can intensify heat impacts by trapping warm air and limiting nighttime cooling, resulting in prolonged exposure to elevated temperatures across many school sites. As extreme heat events increase in frequency and duration, students, faculty, and staff may face heightened health and safety risks, particularly young children, individuals with access and functional needs, and those without reliable access to cooling. Increased temperatures may also drive higher energy demand across school facilities, placing additional strain on electrical systems and increasing the potential for power disruptions that could affect classroom operations and continuity of educational services.

Drought & Water Reliability
Climate change is expected to increase the frequency and duration of drought conditions affecting Napa Valley College. The campus relies on regional water supplies that are sensitive to prolonged dry periods, CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-54
which can reduce water availability and increase demand during hotter conditions. These impacts may require the implementation of water conservation measures that affect campus landscaping, irrigation, and facility operations.

Drought conditions can also affect the broader campus environment. Vegetation stress in landscaped areas and surrounding open space may increase maintenance needs and reduce canopy cover, contributing to higher localized temperatures. In addition, prolonged dry conditions may impact nearby riparian areas associated with the Napa River, reducing their effectiveness in supporting ecosystem health and natural stormwater functions.

Precipitation, Storms & Flooding
Climate projections indicate that precipitation is likely to occur in fewer but more intense storm events.

These high-intensity storms, often associated with atmospheric rivers, can increase the risk of localized flooding and drainage system exceedance at Napa Valley College, particularly in lower-lying portions of the campus.

Heavy rainfall over short durations can lead to ponding in parking areas, stress on stormwater infrastructure, and localized erosion. When intense storms follow extended dry periods, soils may be less able to absorb water, increasing runoff and the potential for minor slope instability or sediment movement.

Flooding and debris may also affect campus access routes and surrounding transportation corridors, impacting mobility and emergency response.

Wildfire & Vegetation Change
Rising temperatures and prolonged dry conditions are expected to increase wildfire risk in areas surrounding Napa Valley College. While the main campus is largely developed, it is adjacent to open space, agricultural lands, and natural vegetation that may be susceptible to wildfire. Fire events in the surrounding area can impact the campus through smoke, poor air quality, and potential evacuation or operational disruptions.

Changes in vegetation patterns, including increased plant stress and potential shifts in species composition, may contribute to higher fuel loads over time. Even without direct fire impacts, degraded air quality from regional wildfire events can affect campus operations and public health, particularly for sensitive populations.

Cascading Effects
Climate change increases the likelihood of cascading and compounding impacts across multiple hazards affecting Napa Valley College. Extreme heat can intensify drought conditions and increase wildfire risk, while drought-stressed soils may be more vulnerable to erosion during heavy rainfall. Severe storms may impact infrastructure already stressed by age or environmental conditions, and flooding can disrupt transportation and utility systems critical to campus operations.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-55
These interconnected risks highlight the importance of integrating climate considerations into campus planning, infrastructure improvements, and emergency preparedness efforts. Proactive and adaptive strategies will be essential to maintaining safe operations and enhancing long-term resilience at Napa Valley College as climate conditions continue to evolve.

10.5.3 Climate Change Impacts & Vulnerable Populations
Climate change is expected to exacerbate many of the natural hazards affecting Napa County, increasing risks to populations that already face social, economic, or physical vulnerabilities. Rising temperatures, more extreme precipitation events, prolonged drought, and increased frequency of extreme heat are projected to intensify existing hazard conditions and create new challenges for public health, safety, and emergency response.

Certain populations in Napa County are more likely to experience disproportionate impacts from climaterelated hazards. Older adults, individuals with disabilities, low-income households, renters, and households with limited English proficiency may have reduced capacity to prepare for, respond to, and recover from climate-driven events. These groups may face barriers related to mobility, access to transportation, financial resources, housing stability, or timely access to emergency information.

Extreme heat presents a growing risk to vulnerable populations, particularly elderly residents, individuals with underlying health conditions, outdoor workers, and households without adequate cooling. Heat waves can increase the incidence of heat-related illness, strain electrical systems, and worsen air quality, especially when combined with wildfire smoke. Low-income households may be less able to afford cooling costs or make energy-efficient upgrades, increasing exposure during prolonged heat events.

Flooding disproportionately affect residents and workers in low-lying areas near the Napa River and bayfront. Vulnerable populations living or working in these areas may face greater risk of displacement, property damage, and disruption of access to essential services. Flood events can also impact transportation routes and utilities, creating additional challenges for individuals who rely on public transit, medical equipment, or nearby services.

Drought and water scarcity can place added burdens on vulnerable populations by increasing utility costs, limiting access to cooling and landscaping, and reducing the resilience of natural systems that provide flood protection and cooling benefits. For low-income households and fixed-income seniors, increased water and energy costs associated with drought and heat can compound financial stress.

Climate change may also increase the frequency and duration of poor air quality events, particularly from regional wildfires. Individuals with respiratory conditions, older adults, children, and outdoor workers are especially sensitive to smoke exposure. Limited access to air filtration, clean indoor environments, or protective equipment can further increase health risks for vulnerable populations.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-56

10.5.4 Hazard Problem Statements
As part of the mitigation action identification process, the Planning Committee for each jurisdiction identified areas of concern (aka problem statements) for their respective facilities based on the risk assessment and vulnerability analysis, utilizing the RAMP mapping and static snapshot maps. Problem statements focused on the impact, victim, or threat that the hazard could create in the jurisdiction, as described in Table 10-11. Identifying common issues and weaknesses through these problem statements assisted the planning group in understanding the realm of resources needed for mitigation.

The goal is to have at least one mitigation action for every problem statement. Projects or actions have been developed to mitigate each problem identified. See Table 10-13 for a full list of mitigation actions and corresponding problem statements that they address. Each problem statement is coded with a problem number for cross-referencing between Table 10-11 and Table 10-13 Table 10-11: Napa Valley College Hazard Problem Statements Problem No. Hazard Area of
Concern
Primary
Agency
Problem Description Related MA
ps-DR-NVC353Drought Impact Napa Valley
College
Prolonged drought increases utility costs and
forces irrigation curtailment, causing
degradation of grounds and outdoor spaces.

Drought-related water service reductions can
disrupt basic student services and campus
activities.
ma-DR-NVC-230
ps-DR-NVC354Drought Threat Napa Valley
College
Dependence on a single supply, limited
alternative sources (non-potable/recycled),
extensive irrigated areas, and aging or
inefficient plumbing systems heighten NVC’s
exposure to drought.
ma-DR-NVC-230,
ma-AH-NVC-229
ps-DR-NVC355Drought Threat Napa Valley
College
Drought-stressed vegetation around campus
elevates secondary hazards (e.g., wildfire) and
can amplify operational disruptions.
ma-DR-NVC-230
ps-EQ-NVC-76 Earthquake Threat Napa Valley
College
Older buildings built before benchmark
seismic standard years, including those
constructed in the 1960s, and those that lie
atop potentially softer soils are susceptible to
severe damage and failure during a major
earthquake.
ma-EQ-NVC-43,
ma-EQ-NVC-41
ps-EQ-NVC-83 Earthquake Impact Napa Valley
College
A major earthquake could cause significant
damage to campus resulting in financial
losses, disruption of instruction and long-term
operation challenges.
ma-EQ-NVC-43,
ma-EQ-NVC-41,
ma-AH-NVC-231
ps-EQ-NVC-84 Earthquake Victim Napa Valley
College
Napa Valley College has a large population of
students, staff, and visitors vulnerable to
earthquakes. A strong seismic event could
result in injury or loss of life, particularly in
older buildings or crowded areas.
ma-EQ-NVC-41,
ma-EQ-NVC-43,
ma-AH-NVC-229
ps-FL-NVC-126 Flood Impact Napa Valley
College
Napa Valley College could be impacted by
casualties, property damage, business
interruption, financial loss, and environmental
contamination during a flood event.
ma-AH-NCo-6,
ma-FL-NVC-68,
ma-FL-NVC-110,
ma-AH-NVC-229
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-57
Problem No. Hazard Area of
Concern
Primary
Agency
Problem Description Related MA
ps-FL-NVC-127 Flood Threat Napa Valley
College
Both the Napa and St. Helena campuses are at
risk of riverine flooding exacerbated by
climate change.
ma-AH-NCo-6,
ma-FL-NVC-68,
ma-FL-NVC-110
ps-HH-NVC351High Heat Victim Napa Valley
College
Students, staff, and visitors—particularly those
in non-conditioned spaces, outdoor workers,
athletes, and medically vulnerable
populations—are at risk of heat stress during
extreme heat events.
ma-HH-NVC-233,
ma-AH-NVC-229
ps-HH-NVC352High Heat Impact Napa Valley
College
Extreme heat elevates cooling demand and
utility costs, strains HVAC systems, reduces
instructional hours, and cancels outdoor
programs and events.
ma-WF-NVC-228,
ma-HH-NVC-233,
ma-AH-NVC-231
ps-SW-NVC146Severe
Weather
Impact Napa Valley
College
Napa Valley College is subject to heavy winter
rains that can cause localized flooding,
environmental contamination, and property
and infrastructure damage.
ma-SW-NCo-81,
ma-SW-NCo-82,
ma-SW-NVC-125,
ma-FL-NVC-68
ps-SW-NVC150Severe
Weather
Victim Napa Valley
College
Napa Valley College has a population of
students, staff, and visitors that is vulnerable
to severe weather impacts, such as when
walking between buildings or during power
outages.
ma-SW-NCo-81,
ma-SW-NCo-82,
ma-AH-NCo-5,
ma-SW-NVC-125,
ma-SW-NVC-232,
ma-AH-NVC-229
ps-SW-NVC349Severe
Weather
Threat Napa Valley
College
Climate change is increasing the frequency
and intensity of severe weather events.
ma-FL-NVC-68,
ma-SW-NVC-232
ps-SW-NVC350Severe
Weather
Impact Napa Valley
College
High-wind can down trees and damage roofs;
trigger power outages and campus closures;
disrupt instruction and events; and drive up
emergency maintenance and insurance costs.
ma-SW-NVC-232,
ma-AH-NVC-231
ps-WF-NVC180Wildfire Threat Napa Valley
College
Portions of the Napa Valley College campus
are within the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI),
and the campus is vulnerable to post-wildfire
hazards such as erosion, debris flow, and
flooding.
ma-WF-NCo-94,
ma-WF-NVC-126,
ma-WF-NVC-126,
ma-WF-NVC-228
ps-WF-NVC348Wildfire Victim Napa Valley
College
Wildfire smoke from regional fires such as the
2020 Glass Fire has caused severe air quality
issues, forcing campus closures. Poor air
quality poses health risks to vulnerable
students and staff and may require indoor
filtration and operational plans.
ma-WF-NVC-228,
ma-AH-NVC-229
ps-WF-NVC356Wildfire Impact Napa Valley
College
Fire weather conditions and nearby wildfires
often lead to power outages or trigger PSPS
events.
ma-AH-NVC-231
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-58

10.6 Mitigation Strategy
This section provides the framework for how the Napa Valley College will reduce natural hazard risk within its jurisdiction while supporting the broader goals of the Napa County MJHMP. It includes an overview of existing capabilities, opportunities to strengthen resilience, and the college’s prioritized mitigation actions.

Together, these elements demonstrate how the college integrates hazard awareness into its planning and development processes while contributing to a coordinated countywide approach.

Within the Napa County MJHMP, the mitigation strategy serves as the roadmap for future hazard mitigation efforts. For the college, the strategy outlined in this annex reflects the outcomes of the countywide planning process while also addressing the college’s unique risks, priorities, and community needs. The strategy is designed to reduce vulnerabilities identified in the risk assessment, including the problem statements developed for flooding, earthquakes and liquefaction, slope failure, wildfire, drought, severe storms, extreme heat, and climate change.

Mitigation actions identified in this annex include both policy-based and project-based initiatives, with an emphasis on integrating resilience into land use planning, infrastructure investments, and community programs. Actions are structured to align with FEMA’s requirements and to coordinate with existing college, county, and regional planning mechanisms. Each action identifies responsible parties, potential funding sources, and the resources needed for implementation.

For the college, this strategy provides a framework for strengthening resilience by combining office-led initiatives, such as college preparedness, with regional coordination through the MJHMP. By advancing these efforts in local planning documents, Napa Valley College enhances its ability to reduce hazard risk while supporting long-term community safety, sustainability, and economic stability.

The subsections that follow describe these elements in detail:
▪ Sections 10.6.1, Capabilities and Opportunities, provides a summary of NVC’s capacity to address natural hazards.
▪ Section 10.6.2, Mitigation Action Plan, presents the college’s prioritized actions to guide implementation in coordination with countywide strategies. ▪ Section 10.6.3, Status of Previous Mitigation Actions, provides a summary of all previous actions and their current status, whether completed, cancelled, or revised.

Aligning the Action Plan
This section connects the college’s mitigation actions with its existing capabilities and areas for growth.

Capability assessments are a required element of hazard mitigation planning under the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 and FEMA’s 2025 planning guidance, ensuring that actions are realistic, achievable, and aligned with available resources.

The section begins with a summary of the college’s capabilities across four areas: planning and regulatory, administrative and technical, fiscal, and education and outreach. This overview highlights the tools and CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-59
strengths that the district already uses to reduce hazard risk. The section then provides a detailed analysis of each capability area, identifying both current practices and opportunities to expand resilience.

10.6.1 Capabilities & Opportunities
This section provides a detailed assessment of Napa Valley College’s current capabilities to support hazard mitigation, as well as future opportunities. This consists of describing how the college is planning for hazards and growth and a summary of its existing capabilities and the potential for enhancement.

Planning for Hazards & Growth
Napa Valley College manages growth and campus development within the framework of state regulations, district planning policies, and institutional capital improvement programs. The main campus in the City of Napa and the satellite campus in St. Helena are largely built out, with future development focused on renovation, modernization, and targeted infill within the existing campus footprint. This pattern of development concentrates facilities, infrastructure, and campus activities in areas that are already subject to natural hazards.

As a result, portions of the College’s buildings, infrastructure, and daily population are located in areas exposed to hazards such as flooding near the Napa River, strong earthquake ground shaking, wildfire risk at the wildland urban interface, and extreme heat. Lower-lying areas of the main campus are more susceptible to flooding and drainage constraints, while variations in soil conditions across the site influence seismic response. The St. Helena campus, located in a more rural and vegetated setting, may experience increased exposure to wildfire and access constraints during emergency events.

Hazard vulnerability is addressed through integration of risk considerations into campus planning, facility design, and maintenance practices. Capital improvement projects, facility upgrades, and new construction activities incorporate hazard-resistant design measures, including seismic strengthening, stormwater management improvements, and site-specific engineering considerations. Emergency access, evacuation planning, and continuity of operations are also key components of campus planning to ensure safety and resilience during hazard events.

Climate change is expected to intensify several hazards affecting Napa Valley College, including extreme heat, more intense storm events, prolonged drought, and increased wildfire risk in surrounding areas. As the College continues to modernize and adapt its facilities, resilience is incorporated into planning and investment decisions. Emphasis is placed on sustainable design, efficient water use, infrastructure reliability, and protection of surrounding natural systems to ensure that future improvements reduce risk and support the long-term safety and functionality of the campus.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-60
Building Codes & Development Standards
Building design, construction, and renovation at Napa Valley College are regulated through a state-level framework that emphasizes structural safety, fire and life safety, and accessibility. As a California Community College, the College is subject to oversight by the Division of the State Architect (DSA), which serves as the primary authority for plan review, approval, and construction oversight. The DSA ensures that all campus facilities comply with the requirements of the California Building Standards Code (Title 24), including provisions related to seismic safety, accessibility, and fire protection.

The Structural Safety/Community Colleges (DSA-SS/CC) division is specifically responsible for reviewing construction documents and inspecting projects to verify compliance throughout the design and construction process. This centralized oversight ensures that new buildings and major renovations at Napa Valley College meet rigorous safety standards appropriate for essential public facilities in a seismically active region.

The California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office (CCCCO) plays a complementary role by overseeing capital outlay planning, including the review and approval of district Five-Year Capital Outlay Plans, facility planning efforts, and project funding. This process helps align campus development with statewide priorities and ensures that hazard mitigation considerations are incorporated into long-term facility investment decisions.

Additional state agencies contribute to the regulatory framework. The California Building Standards Commission (CBSC) is responsible for adopting and publishing Title 24, which establishes the building code requirements enforced by DSA. The Office of Public School Construction (OPSC), under the Department of General Services (DGS), supports the administration of state funding programs for educational facilities. The Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) may also be involved in reviewing campus sites for potential environmental hazards during planning and development.

Construction of community college facilities in California is further governed by the Field Act, which requires state oversight to ensure structural integrity and life safety performance. Together, these regulations establish a comprehensive system that promotes resilient design and construction practices.

For Napa Valley College, adherence to these standards supports the development and maintenance of facilities that are better equipped to withstand hazards such as earthquakes, fire, and extreme weather, while protecting the safety of the campus community.

California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) & Hazard Mitigation Planning, development, and capital improvement projects at Napa Valley College are subject to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), which requires evaluation of potential environmental and hazard-related impacts associated with discretionary projects. For campus facilities, this includes analysis of hazards such as flooding, seismic risk, wildfire exposure, hazardous materials, and other site-specific conditions. Where significant impacts are identified, CEQA requires the incorporation of feasible mitigation CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-61
measures, which may include site design modifications, infrastructure improvements, emergency access provisions, or operational controls to reduce risk.

Napa Valley College operates within a broader regulatory framework that integrates multiple state and federal requirements related to hazard mitigation and environmental protection. Key programs informing campus planning and development include the State Seismic Hazards Mapping Act, which identifies areas susceptible to liquefaction and landslides; the California Building Standards Code (Title 24), which establishes structural, fire, and accessibility requirements; and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) National Flood Insurance Program, which guides floodplain management and development considerations. Together, these regulations ensure that hazard risks are evaluated and addressed as part of campus planning, design, and construction.

CEQA review for Napa Valley College projects typically occurs in coordination with facility planning and capital improvement efforts. Many campus improvements involve modernization or renovation of existing facilities, which may allow environmental review to tier from prior analyses or utilize streamlined documentation where appropriate. This approach supports efficient project delivery while maintaining compliance with environmental and hazard mitigation requirements.

Recent updates to CEQA practice have also influenced how certain impacts are evaluated. Transportation impacts are now assessed using Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) rather than Level of Service (LOS), emphasizing reduction in vehicle travel and associated emissions. In addition, greenhouse gas analysis must align with current regional and state standards, often requiring projects to incorporate measures such as energy-efficient building systems, electrification, and support for alternative transportation.

Through compliance with CEQA and related regulatory programs, Napa Valley College integrates hazard mitigation into its planning and development processes, ensuring that campus improvements reduce risk, enhance resilience, and support the long-term safety of students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

Development & Hazard Considerations
Development at Napa Valley College occurs within a physical and regulatory environment shaped by natural hazards, site constraints, and state-level oversight of campus facilities. As a largely built-out institution, the College focuses on modernization, renovation, and targeted infill within its existing campuses in the City of Napa and St. Helena. This pattern of development places campus facilities, infrastructure, and daily operations in areas where natural hazards must be carefully considered and managed.

Portions of the College’s campuses are located in proximity to known hazard areas, including flood-prone zones near the Napa River, areas subject to strong seismic shaking and localized liquefaction, and locations exposed to extreme heat and wildfire risk. Rather than avoiding development in these areas, Napa Valley College incorporates risk-informed planning, design, and construction practices to reduce vulnerability and enhance campus resilience.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-62
Flood hazards are addressed through coordination with applicable floodplain management requirements and incorporation of resilient design measures. Campus improvements consider site drainage, stormwater management, and protection of critical infrastructure to reduce the potential for flood-related impacts.

Where applicable, design strategies may include elevating or protecting utilities, improving conveyance systems, and minimizing impacts to natural drainage patterns.

Seismic hazards are a primary consideration due to the College’s location within a highly active seismic region. All new construction and major renovations are designed in accordance with state seismic safety standards and reviewed through the Division of the State Architect. Site-specific geotechnical conditions, including variations in soil properties across the campus, are evaluated to address risks associated with ground shaking. These measures are intended to reduce structural damage and maintain life safety during earthquake events.

Wildfire exposure, extreme heat, and severe weather are also incorporated into campus planning and operations. The St. Helena campus and vegetated areas surrounding the main campus may experience elevated wildfire risk, while valley conditions can intensify heat exposure. Development and maintenance practices consider defensible space, vegetation management, access for emergency response, and infrastructure resilience to support safe evacuation and continuity of operations.

Through integration of hazard considerations into planning, design, and capital improvements, Napa Valley College seeks to ensure that future development reduces risk, protects campus populations, and supports long-term operational resilience.

Capabilities & Opportunities Assessment
To develop a realistic and actionable mitigation strategy, it must account for existing jurisdictional capabilities and what future opportunities there are to enhance those capabilities for purposes of hazard mitigation. This section provides an assessment of the Napa Valley College’s existing capabilities and future opportunities, including planning and regulatory, administrative and technical, fiscal, and public outreach and education capabilities. This assessment also identifies opportunities to integrate this MJHMP into future planning, policies, or programs to weave mitigation efforts into daily operations and address hazard problems wholistically. Capabilities are categorized into four groups and include various mechanisms. ▪ Planning and Regulatory Capabilities: Existing long-range plans, emergency response plans, hazard-specific plans, land use policies, and building and development standards. ▪ Administrative and Technical Capabilities: Available expertise in emergency services, engineering, grant management, and community planning.
▪ Fiscal Capabilities: Budgetary capacity, taxing authority, grants, and other funding mechanisms that can support mitigation projects.
▪ Outreach and Education Capabilities: Existing programs for providing technical assistance, community education, public warnings, and stakeholder engagement.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-63
A full description of the process used to develop the capabilities assessment is provided in Volume 1, Section

2.3.3. This capabilities and opportunities assessment for the college lists the various types of capabilities along with how they have been, currently are, or will in the future be integrated into hazard mitigation planning efforts. The three “HMP Integration” columns that identify the capability’s status and usage are color-coded with green, yellow, or orange shading to communicate the following:
▪ Status: If the capability is present at all and what level of use it has generally. ▪ Current Mitigation Use: If the capability is currently being used in mitigation efforts, specifically, and at what level.
▪ Future Opportunity: If there is a future opportunity to integrate the capability into mitigation efforts and at what level.

Summary of Capabilities & Opportunities
This Capabilities and Opportunities Assessment for Napa Valley College summarizes the various types of capabilities it has for hazard mitigation currently. The assessment also identifies opportunities to integrate, expand, and improve the college’s capabilities for future hazard mitigation. Table 10-12 provides a comprehensive list of capabilities and identifies the current status, current mitigation use, and future opportunities.

Planning & Regulatory
Napa Valley College operates within a state-regulated framework for facility planning and construction and does not directly regulate land use or development beyond its campus boundaries. The College does not maintain traditional local planning tools such as zoning or subdivision authority; however, it incorporates hazard mitigation into campus planning through capital improvement projects, facility upgrades, and coordination with regulatory agencies.

While the College does not maintain a formal Capital Improvement Program document, it actively advances mitigation through capital planning funded by voter-approved bond measures and state and federal grants.

These efforts have supported seismic retrofits, ADA and life safety improvements, and stormwater resilience projects. Additional planning-related activities include coordination with local fire agencies for inspections, participation in regional Community Wildfire Protection Plan efforts, and implementation of sustainability and water conservation practices. Although several formal hazard-specific plans (e.g., flood response, drought contingency, or climate action plans) are not currently adopted, the College integrates hazard considerations into project design, maintenance practices, and campus operations, with opportunities to formalize these efforts in the future.

Future integration of the MJHMP will occur through various processes and mechanisms outlined across multiple mitigation actions (Table 10-13). Key opportunities for future hazard mitigation integration with Napa Valley College’s existing planning mechanisms include using the updated risk assessment, hazardspecific vulnerability findings, and projected climate change impacts to inform the All-Hazard Emergency CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-64
Response Plan & Drills action (ma-EQ-NVC-41) and the Multi-Hazard Outreach & Alert System action (maAH-NVC-229).

Administrative & Technical
Napa Valley College maintains moderate administrative and technical capacity to support hazard mitigation planning and implementation. The College is not an emergency response agency but participates in regional coordination efforts with Napa County and local partners. Technical functions such as engineering design and GIS analysis are primarily supported through contracted services or shared resources, rather than in-house staff.

The College benefits from dedicated staff focused on grant writing and program funding, which strengthens its ability to secure external resources for mitigation and capital improvement projects. Public outreach and education functions are supported through an internal team that provides workshops, safety information, and community engagement, although resources are limited. Overall, this distributed staffing model supports current mitigation activities but presents opportunities to expand technical capacity as climate adaptation and resilience efforts evolve.

Warning Systems & Services
Napa Valley College maintains robust warning and notification capabilities through the NVC SAFE alert system, which delivers emergency notifications via email, text, and social media. This system is used to communicate time-sensitive information related to a wide range of hazards, including flooding, wildfire, earthquakes, and other emergencies.

The College’s notification system is coordinated with Napa County alert systems, providing redundancy and improving the reach of emergency communications. This multi-channel approach enhances situational awareness and supports timely protective actions for students, faculty, staff, and visitors across campus.

Fiscal
Napa Valley College has moderate to strong fiscal capacity to support hazard mitigation through bond financing and external funding sources. The College has successfully utilized general obligation bonds to fund major capital improvements, including seismic upgrades, infrastructure modernization, and safety enhancements. These bond revenues are often supplemented by state grants and competitive funding programs.

The College does not rely on local levies, utility fees, or special tax bonds to fund mitigation activities, and it does not maintain formal policies restricting investment in hazard-prone areas. Nevertheless, hazard risk is considered in capital planning decisions, and available funding mechanisms provide a strong foundation for continued investment in resilience and infrastructure improvements.

Education & Outreach
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-65
Napa Valley College demonstrates strong education and outreach capabilities that support hazard awareness and preparedness. The College provides hazard-related information through campus safety alerts, educational materials, and periodic workshops addressing risks such as wildfire, drought, flooding, and earthquakes. Outreach is coordinated through Risk Management, the Public Information Officer, and campus safety programs.

The College maintains active social media platforms and communication channels that can be leveraged for hazard education and emergency messaging, although there is an opportunity to expand their use specifically for mitigation outreach. Additional resources, such as printed materials and compliance-related notifications, are distributed through campus police and safety programs. While formalized outreach programs and dedicated hazard information hubs are limited, existing efforts provide a strong foundation for expanding public engagement and preparedness initiatives in the future.

ASSESSMENT LEGEND
HMP Integration
Status Current Mitigation Use Future Opportunity
Currently in use or present. Used widely for mitigation. Opportunity to expand and integrate. (Sort of) Seldomly used or limited
presence.

Limited use in mitigation
planning.

Limited opportunity to expand and
integrate.
(No) Not present or available. Not used in mitigation planning.

No opportunity to expand or
integrate.

Table 10-12: Napa Valley College Capabilities and Opportunities Assessment HMP Integration
Resource Status
Current
Mitigation
Use
Future
Opportunity Notes / Additional Detail
Planning and Regulatory
Capabilities
Hazard Reduction Programs
(Annually Conducted)
Capital Improvements Program
(CIP) or Plan
Green Green Green
Does not maintain a formal CIP document but
engages in capital project planning through the
Measure E bond program and competitive
state/federal grants. Projects include seismic
retrofits, stormwater resilience (e.g., recharge
basins), and utility upgrades.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-66
HMP Integration
Resource Status
Current
Mitigation
Use
Future
Opportunity Notes / Additional Detail
Annual Fire Prevention Plan
Yellow Yellow Green
Facilities Services conducts regular fire safety
inspections and coordinates with local fire
agencies but does not maintain a formal fire
mitigation plan.

Seismic Safety Program (Nonstructural)
Yellow Yellow Green
Some seismic mitigation (e.g., bracing
equipment, safety signage) is implemented, but
no formal non-structural seismic program
exists.

Earthquake Modernization Plan
(Building Safety)
Green Green Green
Major building upgrades and retrofits are
underway with some completed through
Measure E funding, with full compliance to
seismic code and ADA/Life Safety
improvements.

Stormwater Management
Program (Annual Inspections)
Yellow Yellow Green
No formal inspection program, but college leads
stormwater resilience projects (e.g., recharge
basins, green infrastructure) with partners and
evaluates performance through pilot studies.

Hazard Plans and Programs
Floodplain Response Plan
Orange Orange Yellow
No formal flood response plan is in place, and
NVC does not lead emergency response for flood
events. However, the College contributes to predisaster mitigation by integrating stormwater improvements (e.g., recharge basins, drainage
upgrades) into capital projects.

Community Wildfire Protection
Plan (CWPP)
Green Green Green
While NVC is not a lead agency, it participates in
local CWPP implementation through
coordination with CAL FIRE and County OES,
and supports defensible space, fuel break, and
vegetation management on campus grounds.

Ground Water Management
Planning / Plans
Orange Orange Yellow
Not within the College’s jurisdiction.

Groundwater management planning is led by
other agencies; however, NVC supports
stormwater recharge through facility design.

Climate Action Plan
Yellow Yellow Green
No formal CAP is adopted, but the College
contributes to regional resilience goals via its
Sustainability Committee, which supports forest
health, water conservation, and reduced campus
emissions.

Drought Mgmt/ Contingency Plan
Yellow Yellow Green
NVC does not have a formal drought
contingency plan but actively implements
drought resilience strategies, including
greywater reuse, efficient irrigation, and
coordination with local water agencies.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-67
HMP Integration
Resource Status
Current
Mitigation
Use
Future
Opportunity Notes / Additional Detail
FireWise Communities within
District
Yellow Yellow Green
Napa Valley College is not formally recognized
as part of a Firewise Community, but the College
partners with local fire agencies and
implements defensible space and vegetation
management practices consistent with Firewise
principles.

Hazard-Related Public Outreach
Program
Green Green Green
The College provides hazard education through
emergency preparedness materials, campus
safety alerts, and occasional workshops related
to wildfire, drought, seismic, and flood risks.

Outreach is coordinated through Risk
Management and the Public Information
Officer.

Administrative and Technical
Staff Capacity
Emergency Manager
Yellow Yellow Green Not an emergency response agency, but participates in regional coordination efforts
Civil Engineer
Yellow Yellow Green
Does not employ in-house civil engineering
staff; secures engineering design services
through competitive vendor contracts for
specific projects (e.g., Wine Education Center
Phase II)
Dedicated Public Outreach
Personnel Green Green Green
Outreach/education team supports workshops,
public information distribution, and community
partnerships; resource-limited but active
GIS Specialist and Capability
Yellow Yellow Green GIS functions are either shared or consultantsupported Grant Manager, Writer, or
Specialist Green Green Green Dedicated staff focused on grant writing and program funding
Other N/A N/A N/A
Warning Systems/Services
General
Green Green Green
Employs the NVC SAFE alert system, delivering
emergency notifications, official notices, and
updates via email, text, and social media, in
coordination with Napa County’s alters.

Flood Green Green Green NVC SAFE
Wildfire Green Green Green NVC SAFE
Geological Hazards Green Green Green NVC SAFE
Fiscal Capabilities
Financial Resources for
Hazard Mitigation
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-68
HMP Integration
Resource Status
Current
Mitigation
Use
Future
Opportunity Notes / Additional Detail
Levy for Specific Purposes with
Voter Approval Orange Orange Orange
NVC does not rely on parcel taxes or other local
levies approved directly by voters for funding
service or mitigation programs.

Utilities Fees N/A N/A N/A Not a utility provider
System Development Fee
N/A N/A N/A Does not provide utility or other applicable services outside campus
General Obligation Bonds to Incur
Debt
Green Green Green
NVC issues GO bonds (e.g., from 2002 and 2018
elections), which have financially supported
seismic upgrades, capital improvements, and
infrastructure investments.

Special Tax Bonds to Incur Debt
Orange Orange Orange NVC does not use special tax bonds as a financing mechanism.

Withheld Spending in HazardProne Areas Orange Orange Green No formal policy withholding spending; capital
decisions may consider risk but no documented
mitigation policy.

Stormwater Service Fees
N/A N/A N/A Does not provide stormwater services outside campus
Capital Improvement Project
Funding Green Green Green
Bond revenues, supplemented with state grants,
fund many capital projects including safety and
resilience upgrades
Education / Outreach
Capabilities
Education/Outreach
Resources
Website Dedicated to Hazard
Topics Yellow Yellow Green
No dedicated hazard website or dashboard, but
educational materials available; future
opportunity
Dedicated Social Media
Green Yellow Green
NVC maintains active social media accounts
across Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube,
and TikTok, but use for mitigation could be
expanded.

Hazard Info. Avail. at Library/
Planning Desk Yellow Yellow Green No dedicated hazard information center or desk, but educational materials available
Annual Public Safety Events
Yellow Yellow Green No annual public safety events / fairs currently hosted, but workshops provided irregularly
Ability to Field Public Tech.

Assistance Requests
Green Yellow Green
NVC Risk Management coordinates internal
compliance training and hazard awareness
initiatives via Keenan Safe Colleges platform,
and hazard education is provided for wildfire,
drought, seismic, and flood risks via the Public
Information Officer, but no dedicated technical
assistance currently.

Public Safety Newsletters or
Printed Outreach Green Yellow Green
Informational materials and bulletins are issued
by college police as part of Clery Act compliance
and safety updates.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-69
HMP Integration
Resource Status
Current
Mitigation
Use
Future
Opportunity Notes / Additional Detail
Fire Safe Councils
Yellow Yellow Green
No formal partnerships with Fire Safe Council,
but College partners with local fire agencies and
implements Firewise principles.

Resource Conservation Districts
Orange Orange Green No formal partnership with Napa County RCD but future opportunity
Other N/A N/A N/A
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-70

10.6.2 Napa Valley College Mitigation Action Plan
The college’s mitigation
actions were developed
through a collaborative
process informed by the
updated risk assessment,
local priorities, and
extensive stakeholder
engagement. As part of
this 2026 MJHMP update,
the office reviewed
mitigation actions from
its prior Local Hazard
Mitigation Plan to
determine which actions
to carry forward, which to
consolidate, and where
entirely new strategies
were required. This careful
evaluation ensured that
the updated action plan
builds upon past
commitments while also responding to current risks and future challenges.

The plan addresses the college’s most significant hazards, including wildfire, earthquake, flood, slope failure, drought, dam failure, and extreme weather. Each mitigation action is designed to align with FEMA’s hazard mitigation guidance and the requirements of the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000. Where appropriate, overlapping or redundant actions were consolidated into broader, more comprehensive strategies that improve clarity, increase feasibility, and strengthen regional coordination.

The mitigation action prioritization method used by all participating jurisdictions is described in Volume 1, Section 4. Each action specific to the college is documented in Table 10-13, which identifies the responsible department, implementation timeframe, potential funding sources, and resources required to complete the action. Each action is also assigned a unique alphanumeric identifier (see Figure 10-19) that links the strategy to its associated hazard and supports consistent monitoring and reporting.

The college’s approach recognizes that some hazards are most effectively addressed through regional efforts. Flood protection, drought resilience, and wildfire risk reduction often extend beyond the college’s boundaries and require collaboration with county, regional, and state partners. By aligning local actions with regional strategies, the college helps to consolidate resources, maximize funding opportunities, and ensure Figure 10-19: Mitigation Action Number Key
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
10-71
that mitigation projects achieve the greatest benefit for San Pablo Bay, the Napa Valley, and the wider Napa County community.

Collectively, these mitigation actions provide a roadmap for reducing hazard risk, protecting vulnerable populations, and strengthening the long-term resilience of the college.

CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.

HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE

NAPA COUNTY
NAPA COUNTY | HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN 2026 UPDATE
10-72
Table 10-13: Napa Valley College Mitigation Action Plan Mitigation No. Hazard
Type
SubHazardMitigation
Type
Year Primary
Agency
Title Description Responsible
Party
Estimated
Cost
Estimated
Benefit
Time
Frame
HMA
Activity
Type
Potential Grant
Source
Priority Related Problem Statements
ma-AH-NVC-41 All Hazard PRV -
Prevention ,
PE&A - Public
Education &
Awareness ,
ES -
Emergency
Services
2020 Napa
Valley
College
All-Hazard
Emergency
Response
Plan & Drills
Develop and maintain a campus-specific
emergency response plan for all hazards,
including evacuation routes, shelter locations,
mutual aid, and continuity of instruction under a
range of likely scenarios including earthquake,
flood or dam failure, and wildfire. Conduct EOC
staff training and drills with faculty and
students.

Operations Staff Low Medium 1-3 Years Capacity /
Capability
Building

HMGP / BRIC ,
General Fund
High ps-EQ-NVC-84, ps-EQ-NVC-76,
ps-EQ-NVC-83
ma-AH-NVC229All Hazard PE&A - Public
Education &
Awareness ,
ES -
Emergency
Services
2026 Napa
Valley
College
Multi-Hazard
Outreach &
Alert System
Upgrade mass notification systems and building
alarm systems in coordination with the county
to ensure rapid and accurate communication
during any hazard scenarios. Develop an annual
outreach and education campaign to spread
awareness of hazard risks, preparedness, and
on-campus emergency procedures to faculty
and students.

Administration High Medium 1-3 Years Capacity /
Capability
Building

HMGP / BRIC ,
General Fund
High ps-DR-NVC-354, ps-EQ-NVC84, ps-FL-NVC-126, ps-EHNVC-351, ps-SW-NVC-150, psWF-NVC-348 ma-AH-NVC231All Hazard SP - Structural
Projects
2026 Napa
Valley
College
Back-Up
Power
Expansion
Install back-up power for critical facilities and
systems and test power back-ups annually.

Facilities
Maintenance
High High 1-3 Years Project HMGP / BRIC ,
General Fund
Medium ps-WF-NVC-356, ps-SW-NVC350, ps-EH-NVC-352, ps-EQNVC-83 ma-DR-NVC230Drought NRP - Natural
Resource
Protection , SP
- Structural
Projects
2026 Napa
Valley
College
DroughtResilient Rec
Fields &
Landscaping
Replace non-functional, high-water turf grass
areas with native drought-tolerant landscaping
and replace heavily used grass recreation fields
with drought-tolerant turf. Modernize
landscaping and rec field irrigation systems
around campus with weather-based controls
and soil moisture sensors.

Grounds Staff High Medium 3-5 Years Project HMGP / BRIC , General Fund
Medium ps-DR-NVC-353, ps-DR-NVC354, ps-DR-NVC-355
ma-EQ-NVC-42 Earthquake PPRO -
Property
Protection
2020 Napa
Valley
College
Seismic
Design &
Retrofit of
Critical
Facilities
Conduct seismic evaluations and retrofit
vulnerable facilities, with a priority on pre-1970s
buildings and those on soft soils. Design and
construct all new critical facilities to exceed
minimum seismic standards, especially those
that may serve as emergency shelters or critical
infrastructure.

Facilities
Maintenance
High High 3-5 Years Project HMGP / BRIC ,
General Fund
High ps-EQ-NVC-85
ma-EH-NVC233Extreme
Heat
NRP - Natural
Resource
Protection , SP
- Structural
Projects
2026 Napa
Valley
College
Heat Island
Reductions
Grounds Staff,
Facilities
Maintenance
High Medium 3-5 Years Project HMGP / BRIC ,
General Fund
Medium ps-EH-NVC-352, ps-EH-NVC351
ma-FL-NVC-68 Flood NRP - Natural
Resource
Protection , SP
- Structural
Projects
2013 Napa
Valley
College
Grounds
Team
Training in
Drainage
Infrastructure
Maintenance
Provide the grounds team enhanced training for
conducting inspections, cleaning, assessing, and
repairing or replacing stormwater drainage
infrastructure to prevent blockages and erosion.

Include instruction on identifying problem areas
and integrating BMPs, green infrastructure, and
other enhancements.

Facilities
Maintenance,
Grounds Staff
Medium High 1-3 Years Capacity /
Capability
Building

HMGP / BRIC ,
General Fund
Medium ps-FL-NVC-126, ps-FL-NVC127, ps-SW-NVC-349, ps-SWNVC-146 ma-SW-NVC232Severe
Weather
High Wind NRP - Natural
Resource
Protection
2026 Napa
Valley
College
Tree Canopy
Management
Inventory and assess high-risk trees across
campus every five years and establish an annual
canopy management schedule for pruning,
stabilization, and removal and replacement,
especially along travelways and around
buildings.

Grounds Staff Medium High 3-5 Years Capacity /
Capability
Building

HMGP / BRIC ,
General Fund
Medium ps-SW-NVC-150, ps-SW-NVC349, ps-SW-NVC-350
CAL OES SUBMITTAL - JUNE 2026
Item #6.5.