By SDCN Editor
San Diego, CA–Ahead of another wet winter storm that is expected to bring an additional two to two-and-a-half inches of rain starting tomorrow, the city of San Diego is urging residents to take precautions and prepare for potential flooding in low-lying areas.
On Sunday, an evacuation warning will be sent by text message to those who live in floodplain areas in Southcrest, Mountain View, Encanto, San Ysidro, Sorrento Valley, and Mission Valley.
“We have been advised by the National Weather Service that this upcoming rain event could pack a powerful punch with another record amount of rainfall over an extended period of time,” said Mayor Todd Gloria. “As a result, I am urging all San Diegans to take the proper precautions and make the necessary preparations now. The city has sandbags available, and we will position the assets necessary in order to protect homes and residents during this upcoming storm.”
“As our county continues to recover from the recent winter storms, another powerful storm is making landfall in our region, prompting Governor Newsom to proclaim a state of emergency,” said San Diego County Board of Supervisors Chair Nora Vargas. “The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated, and I want to ensure that every resident is informed and prepared.
The County of San Diego will be working around the clock to provide resources for the community. Local residents are urged to take advantage of the help by visiting AlertSanDiego.org or calling 211. They can also follow the county on social media and pay attention to emergency information and instructions regarding flooding.
City transportation crews will proactively close river crossings and other roads ahead of the storm.
Sand and sandbags are available at 10 recreation centers and two libraries across the city during standard operating hours, while supplies last. Pre-filled sandbags will remain available at the Encanto Recreation Center and Mountain View Community Center on Monday and Tuesday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. for residents in those communities. For a complete list of locations to receive sandbags, visit SanDiego.gov/storm.
In response to the coming storm, Governor Gavin Newsom Sunday proclaimed a state of emergency for eight counties in Southern California including San Diego. The proclamation will allow for additional state resources to support the recovery efforts in storm-impacted areas.
Utilizing the city’s state of emergency following the flooding that impacted communities in Southeast and South San Diego on Monday, Jan. 22, city crews have worked non-stop to clear culverts and channels along approximately four miles of Chollas Creek, completing the work ahead of additional forecasted storms. Emergency repairs were also conducted to fix structural damage on several concrete stormwater channels. The city’s emergency declaration has allowed this work to happen immediately rather than requiring preapproval from state and federal regulators.
As a result of the storm on Jan. 22, the city set up a temporary evacuation shelter at the Municipal Gym in Balboa Park to provide a safe, dry place for people to stay. That shelter will remain operational through the coming week.
Residents under the evacuation warning can request a ride to the shelter at no cost from the United Taxi Workers. To schedule a ride, call (619) 280-4444 or download the Ride United (Passenger) application on a mobile phone.
All San Diego residents can prepare for the rains and help reduce the risk of flooding near their homes and properties by taking a few important steps:
Sweep and pick up trash, leaves, grass clippings, and other debris that collect around storm drains and curb gutters near their home.
Keep the lids securely closed on trash and recycle bins when placing them out on the street for collection. Place each bin approximately 2 to 3 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 their 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.
The County and Cal Fire continue to offer free sand and sandbags to people in unincorporated communities. For assistance with damage cleanup, call the San Diego Flooding Home Hotline at (619) 333-1450.
For more information on insurance coverage for flooding, visit the California Department of Insurance.
Anyone interested in donating items to those affected by the flood can view a list of accepted items and donation centers. Financial donations for the flood response fund are being collected by the San Diego Foundation at SanDiegoFoundation.org.
The city’s website, sandiego.gov/storm, is being updated consistently and includes storm preparedness tips, safety information, lists of road closures and flooded areas, and locations for shelters and sandbags.
