San Diego prepares for storm conditions
The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts a wild week of stormy weather with heavy winds. The agency predicts off-and-on rain showers possible from late tonight Tuesday night through Thursday with light accumulations. Heavier and more widespread precipitation will develop Thursday afternoon.
For Thursday through Saturday, an atmospheric river will take aim at Southern California, leading to widespread moderate to heavy rain, with the heaviest expected to occur on Friday. Conditions will change, resulting in updates to the forecast.
The NWS will continue to refine the rain forecast in the coming days, but as of right now, precipitation is expected to be heavy across the area.
Sandbags available
With significant rain and high winds forecast over the next several days, the City of San Diego is continuing its year-round storm preparations and taking proactive steps to prevent flooding, 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.
- Inspect your property or surroundings for loose tree branches or trees that could be vulnerable to high winds and rain and prepare accordingly.
- 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 available in limited supply and can be picked up at nine 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 through Friday from 1 to 7 p.m.
- Council District 5 – Scripps Ranch Recreation Center, 11454 Blue Cypress Drive.
- Council District 6 – Standley Recreation Center, 3585 Governor Dr.
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.
