With rain expected to arrive in San Diego on Saturday, Oct. 10, and continue through Tuesday, Oct. 13, the City of San Diego is taking steps to prepare for the wet weather and urging residents to do the same. Forecasts indicate that a very strong El Niño weather pattern will increase storm intensity this season, creating more extreme and unpredictable conditions.

Over the next several days, a combination of rain and high tides is anticipated to cause localized flooding in low-lying areas around Midway, Mission Beach and other coastal neighborhoods. Road closures are anticipated, especially in the Midway area at Frontage Road and Pacific Coast Highway, and travelers are encouraged to watch for detour signs and never drive or walk through flooded streets.

City crews are cleaning storm drains, inspecting and clearing storm channels, staging equipment, including temporary pumps and monitoring weather conditions around the clock ahead of the storm. These actions help reduce the risk of flooding and keep neighborhoods safe during periods of heavy rainfall.

To help communities prepare for the impacts of the storm season, the City’s Office of Emergency Services has coordinated a citywide El Niño Preparedness Working Group, bringing together departments and operational teams to identify vulnerabilities, strengthen emergency plans and coordinate with regional partners.

San Diegans are encouraged to prepare their homes and property for severe weather, create an emergency plan and a “go kit” in case they need to leave quickly, and to stay informed by signing up for emergency alerts. Resources and information can be found at sandiego.gov/ElNino.

“Our teams are working diligently to prepare the City’s stormwater system for the incoming rain, but community preparedness is just as critical, especially with El Niño in the forecast,” said Stormwater Department Director Todd Snyder. “By taking a few simple steps now residents can significantly reduce the potential impacts of the storm.”

Residents can prepare for the rain and help reduce the risk of flooding near their homes 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.
• Do not open or lift manhole covers in the event of street flooding.
• 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.

Sandbags are also available in limited supply and can be picked up at 11 recreation centers, centrally located in each City Council District. Residents with identification showing proof of residency can receive up to 10 empty sandbags.

As the sandbags are not pre-filled, residents are encouraged to also plan to buy sand at local hardware stores, landscape suppliers or wherever else sand can be purchased. Sandbags are available at the locations listed below during the recreation center's normal operating 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 - Southcrest Recreation Center, 4149 Newton Ave.
• Council District 8 - Silver Wing Recreation Center, 3737 Arey Drive
• Council District 9 - City Heights Recreation Center, 4380 Landis St.

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. To prioritize safety for residents, the City may close flood-prone roads ahead of the upcoming storm.

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. For more information and resources on how to properly prepare before a storm, please visit the City’s El Niño webpage.