With rainfall in the forecast starting this Wednesday, Feb. 12, and continuing through Friday, Feb. 14, the City of San Diego is taking proactive steps to prevent flooding – and is encouraging San Diegans to take steps to protect their homes ahead of the storm. The National Weather Service predicts 1.5 inches of rain will fall this week across the San Diego region.
The City’s Stormwater Department is placing “no parking” signs in low-lying or flood-prone areas, cleaning storm drains and inlets with a history of debris buildup, and street sweeping to reduce trash and pollutants from entering waterways during the rain.
Throughout the storm, City staff will be monitoring more than 46,000 storm drains citywide for any issues. To prioritize safety, the City may pre-emptively close flood-prone roads in Mission Valley that cross the San Diego River.
“As we prepare for upcoming rain this week, our dedicated City employees have been working to ensure that key stormwater infrastructure is well-maintained,” said Stormwater Department Director Todd Snyder. “While we’re taking proactive measures, we encourage residents to take steps in their own homes and neighborhoods to be prepared as well. Together we can help reduce flood risk in our community throughout this rainy season.”
Under a State of Emergency following the record-breaking storm that hit the San Diego region on Jan. 22, 2024, the City of San Diego was able to perform emergency maintenance for 18 miles of stormwater channels citywide, including 12 miles in the Chollas Creek watershed. The Stormwater Department has continued to conduct this maintenance work throughout the year, and staff will monitor those cleared-out channels during this week’s storm.
Additionally, the City has launched an educational campaign to help residents plan for storms. Informational brochures, in English and Spanish, were mailed to approximately 10,000 people who live or own property in floodplain areas with essential guidelines on emergency preparedness, evacuation plans, flood insurance and other critical flood-related resources.
San Diego residents can prepare for the rain and help reduce the risk of flooding near their homes and properties by taking a few simple steps:
Sweep and pick up trash, leaves, grass clippings and other debris that collect around storm drains and curb gutters near your 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 your 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.
During the rains, multiple crews from the City’s Storm Patrol will be actively monitoring areas throughout the city and responding to incidents, such as temporary flooding and downed trees or branches.
Residents should report storm-related issues, such as flooding or downed trees, by using the Get It Done app or by calling 619-527-7500. If it is a life-threatening emergency, call 911.
Sandbags are also available in limited supply and can be picked up at 11 recreation centers centrally located in each City Council District. Sandbags are limited to 10 bags per City of San Diego household or business, and sand is not provided.
As the sandbags are not pre-filled, residents are encouraged to also plan to buy sand at local hardware stores or landscape suppliers.
Sandbags are available at the locations listed below only during recreation center open hours.
Council District 1 – Pacific Beach Recreation Center, 1405 Diamond St.
Council District 2 (inland) – North Clairemont Recreation Center, 4421 Bannock Ave.
Council District 2 (coastal) – Robb Field Athletic Area, 2525 Bacon St.
Council District 3 – Golden Hill Recreation Center, 2600 Golf Course Drive.
Council District 4 – Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center, 6401 Skyline Drive.
Council District 5 – Scripps Ranch Recreation Center, 11454 Blue Cypress Drive.
Council District 6 – Standley Recreation Center, 3585 Governor Drive.
Council District 7 – Allied Gardens Recreation Center, 5155 Greenbrier Ave.
Council District 8 – Silver Wing Recreation Center, 3737 Arey Drive.
Council District 8 – Southcrest Recreation Center, 4149 Newton Ave.
Council District 9 – City Heights Recreation Center, 4380 Landis St.
With rain in the forecast, the City is also taking extra precautions to protect residents at Safe Sleeping Program sites and other homeless shelter locations. Efforts to fortify some areas with sandbags are underway, and operational contingency plans are in place. City-contracted outreach teams also have been in the San Diego River and other areas alerting people of coming rain and offering available resources.
When rain is forecasted, the City’s inclement weather shelter beds are activated by the San Diego Housing Commission. Individuals experiencing homelessness can call 2-1-1 or visit 211sandiego.org.
For more information and resources on how to properly prepare before a storm, please visit the City’s Storm Preparedness webpage.