SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) – With heavy rain expected to move into the region starting Monday and continuing into Thursday, the city of San Diego announced crews are ramping up preparations to reduce the risk of flooding across the city.
City officials said stormwater teams will monitor river levels, stormwater channels and more than 46,000 stormwater drains during the wet season. Crews have been clearing gutters and water inlets known for debris accumulation and sweeping streets to prevent trash and pollutants from washing into local waterways.
Low-lying areas such as Mission Valley, Sorrento Valley and Southcrest are designated as special flood hazard areas by FEMA and are particularly vulnerable during periods of sustained rainfall. City officials said roads in flood-prone areas could be closed if necessary and urged drivers to avoid those areas during heavy rains.
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The city’s Stormwater Department has also removed large amounts of debris and vegetation from storm pathways in recent months, including ongoing maintenance along Cholas Creek. Officials said crews will continue to monitor these areas throughout the storm and perform additional maintenance once the weather clears
“Preparing for potential flooding is part of the city’s year-round responsibilities,” said Stormwater Department Director Todd Snyder. “Our crews are working hard to ensure our stormwater systems are ready, and we encourage residents to take some simple steps now to prepare for rainfall.”
How residents can prepare
City leaders are asking San Diegans to take some simple steps to help reduce flooding near their homes, including:
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Sweep and remove trash, leaves and debris from around storm drains and gutters.
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Close the lids of trash and recycling bins securely and place trash cans 2 to 3 feet from the curb to avoid blocking stormwater flow.
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Shut down irrigation systems to conserve water and minimize runoff.
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Never open or lift manhole covers during street flooding.
Emergency responders are also reminding residents that in the event of flooding, know the safest routes to and from your home and never drive, bike or walk through floodwaters.
Sandbags provided
A limited number of sandbags are available at 11 recreation centers across the city, with a purchase limit of 10 per household or business. Sand will not be provided and residents are encouraged to purchase it from a local hardware store or landscaping supply store.
Locations include:
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Pacific Beach Recreation Center (Council District 1)
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North Claremont Recreation Center and Robe Field Sports Area (Council District 2)
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Jinshan Recreation Center (Council District 3)
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Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center (Congress 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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Union Gardens Leisure Center (Council District 7)
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Silver Wing Leisure Center and Southcrest Leisure Center (Council District 8)
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City Heights Recreation Center (Council District 9)
Sandbags are available during regular recreation center hours.
For more storm preparedness information, residents can visit the city’s storm preparedness webpage.
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