Major storm on the way
As Hurricane Kay passes off the coast of Baja California, weather forecasters are predicting potentially strong winds and heavy rain to hit the San Diego region on Friday, Sept. 9.
The National Weather Service in San Diego has issued a High Wind Warning for San Diego County from 6 a.m. Friday, Sept. 9, until midnight Saturday morning, Sept. 10.
- Damaging winds may blow down trees and power lines.
- Widespread power outages are possible.
- Strongest winds will be in the early afternoon on Friday.
- Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Use caution if you must drive.
- This storm may intensify, monitor local radio and television stations for additional information and other possible warnings from the National Weather Service.
San Diego prepares
The City of San Diego is taking proactive steps to prevent flooding and protect water quality while also urging residents to take action to safeguard their homes, especially those in flood-prone areas.
The City’s Stormwater Department will be temporarily placing “no parking” signs in low-lying or flood-risk areas, cleaning storm drains and inlets with a history of debris buildup, street sweeping to reduce trash and pollutants from entering waterways and monitoring more than 46,000 storm drains citywide for any issues.
San Diego residents can individually prepare for the rains and help reduce the risk of flooding near their homes and properties by taking a few simple steps:
- Sweep and pick up trash, leaves, grass clippings and other debris that collect around storm drains and curb gutters near your home.
- Keep the lid securely closed on trash and recycle bins when placing them out on the street for collection. Place each bin approximately two to three feet away from the curb so as not to impede the stormwater flowing on the street.
- Proactively turn off irrigation to save water and minimize runoff.
- Know the safest routes to and from your home or property should flooding occur.
- Slow down and do not drive, ride or walk through flood waters.
- Do not open or lift manhole covers in the event of street flooding.
During the rains, multiple crews from the City’s storm patrol will be actively monitoring areas throughout the city and responding to incidents, such as temporary flooding and downed trees or branches.
Sandbags are also available in limited supply and can be picked up at recreation centers centrally located in each City Council District. Residents with identification showing proof of residency can receive up to 10 empty sandbags.
As the sandbags are not pre-filled, residents are encouraged to also plan to buy sand at local hardware stores, landscape suppliers or wherever else sand can be purchased. Sandbags are available at the locations listed below only weekdays from 1 to 7 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 2 p.m.
- Council District 5 – Scripps Ranch Recreation Center, 11454 Blue Cypress Drive.
- Council District 6 – North Clairemont Recreation Center, 4421 Bannock Ave.
Residents can report events, such as flooding or downed trees, by using the Get It Done application or by calling (619) 527-7500. If it is a life-threatening emergency, call 911. For more information and resources on how to properly prepare before a storm, visit the City’s Storm Preparedness page.
