SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) – With heavy rain expected to move into the region starting Monday and lasting through Thursday, the City of San Diego announced crews are stepping up preparations to reduce the risk of flooding across the city.
City officials said storm teams will be monitoring river levels, storm drains and more than 46,000 storm drains during the stretch of rain. Crews have been cleaning drains and inlets known for debris accumulation, as well as sweeping streets to prevent trash and pollutants from washing into local waterways.
Low-lying areas such as Mission Valley, Sorrento Valley and Southcrest — identified by FEMA as Special Flood Hazard Areas — are especially vulnerable during extended rain events. City officials said roads in flood-prone areas may be closed if necessary and drivers are urged to avoid those areas during heavy rain.
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The city’s Stormwater Department has also removed tons of debris and vegetation from storm drains in recent months, including ongoing maintenance along Chollas Creek. Officials say staff will continue to monitor those areas during the storm and perform additional maintenance once the weather clears.
“Preparing for potential flooding is part of the city’s year-round responsibility,” said Stormwater Department Director Todd Snyder. “Our crews are working to ensure our storm systems are ready and we encourage residents to take a few simple steps now to prepare for the rain.”
How residents can prepare
City leaders are asking San Diegans to take several simple steps to help reduce flooding near their homes, including:
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Sweep and remove trash, leaves and debris around storm drains and gutters.
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Securely close trash and recycling bin lids and place bins 2 to 3 feet away from the curb to avoid blocking stormwater flow.
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Turn off irrigation systems to conserve water and minimize runoff.
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Never open or lift the covers of the tappets during flooding in the streets.
Emergency responders also remind residents to know the safest routes to and from their homes in the event of flooding, and to never drive, ride or walk through floodwaters.
Sandbags available
Sandbags are available in limited quantities at 11 recreation centers around the city, with a limit of 10 bags per household or business. Sand is not provided, and residents are encouraged to purchase sand from local hardware or landscape supply stores.
Places include:
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Pacific Beach Recreation Center (Council District 1)
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North Clairemont Recreation Center and Robb Field Athletic Area (Council District 2)
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Golden Hill Recreation Center (Council District 3)
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Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center (Council District 4)
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Scripps Ranch Recreation Center (Council District 5)
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Standley Recreation Center (Council District 6)
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Allied Gardens Recreation Center (Council District 7)
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Silver Wing Recreation Center and Southcrest Recreation Center (Council District 8)
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City Heights Recreation Center (Council District 9)
Sandbags are available during normal recreation center hours.
For more information on storm preparedness, residents can visit the city’s Storm Preparedness webpage.
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