As the winter chill sets in, Oakland is bracing for what the National Weather Service predicts as a wetter-than-usual season. In anticipation, city authorities have called for preparedness, reminding everyone that last year's substantial rainfall was no anomaly and that the time to take action is now.
According to the city's announcement, the Oakland Public Works (OPW) and Oakland Department of Transportation (OakDOT) are on top of things, cleaning out drains and laying the groundwork to prevent flood damage. The forecast, a harbinger of potential floods and mudslides, has prompted the city to coordinate with regional agencies to ensure a well-oiled response machine. But the work is not just for city crews, as every hand is needed on deck, especially with many storm drains still up for adoption in the city's Adopt-a-Drain program.
Detailing steps city residents and businesses can take to lessen the brunt of severe weather, Oakland's administration emphasizes the little actions that go a long way, like gutter clearance and proper tree maintenance. On their website, practical tips abound alongside information on how to get your hands on sandbags and plastic sheeting for emergency flood control. "Clear the drain before the rain," the city says, offering rakes, brooms, and bags to program participants ready to roll up their sleeves.
When heavy rains do hit, Oakland residents can grab emergency sandbags from multiple locations across the city, and they're encouraged to report flooding and related problems to OAK 311. Additionally, the city directs its inhabitants to the AC Alert system for critical updates during emergencies – a service urging all in Alameda County to subscribe. And they're not stopping there: free emergency supplies are also up for grabs, ensuring that Oaklanders have everything they need to safeguard their homes and places of business.
However, the city's call extends beyond physical preparedness in the face of the storm. They ask their citizenry to look out for one another, sharing emergency numbers that might save lives or property when waters rise.
