San Diego is bracing for another deluge as city crews hustle to clear out the aftermath of previous storms, with forecasts predicting up to a half-inch of rain incoming as early as Monday, Feb. 19. Officials are urging residents, particularly those in low-lying areas, to remain vigilant and execute safety measures to avert the dangers posed by potential flooding.
With the sky primed to open up yet again, hundreds from the San Diego Transportation and Stormwater departments, dubbed the Storm Patrol teams, will be dispatched to unclog and declutter storm drains and inlets noted for their susceptibility to blockages, as well as to sweep streets in effort to keep rubbish and pollutants out of city waterways. The city may preemptively close roads that are prone to flooding to prioritize resident safety, announced the City of San Diego.
As the rains pour down, these Storm Patrol squads will be keeping a watchful eye on pump stations and the extensive network of over 46,000 storm drains throughout San Diego. They are also tasked with responding to emergent situations such as flooding incidents, toppled trees, or precarious branches. The city encourages residents to report any storm-related issues by dialing the Public Works Dispatch at 619-527-7500 for a swift response. In cases of life-threatening emergencies, the call to action is clear—dial 911.
In anticipation of the coming rains, there are several precautionary steps that citizens can undertake to minimize flooding risks around their property, such as cleaning up debris around storm drains, securing the lids on waste and recycling bins, turning off irrigation systems to curb water waste, and familiarizing themselves with the safest exit routes should high waters arise. It's important to slow down and avoid driving or walking through floodwaters, and definitely steer clear from tampering with manhole covers during street flooding incidents. Beginning Tuesday, Feb. 20, 2024, empty sandbags will be made available at select recreation centers across the city, though residents need to bring their own sand to fill them. To grab a bag or ten—limited to that amount per household or business—San Diegans can hit up locales like Encanto, Mountain View, or Southcrest Recreation Centers. These centers, however, will be taking a break for Presidents Day but will resume handing out sandbags during regular operating hours post-holiday, the City's notice states.
For further details on storm preparation and safety guidelines, residents are directed to visit the City’s Storm Preparedness webpage and gear up for what Mother Nature has in store.
