San Diego was spared significant damage from Tropical Storm Rachel, but City officials are urging residents to prepare for more powerful storms that are likely to impact the region during the next few months.

Over the past weekend, San Diego experienced rain, strong winds and high tides but, thankfully, avoided any catastrophic outcomes. In preparation for the storm, City crews were staged in areas prone to flooding and brought out heavy equipment to expand sand berms along the beach, to help prevent impacts from the high tides.

While the storm brought localized flooding to the coastal areas, the Chollas Creek watershed – which was impacted by the devastating storm of 2024 – did not see significant impacts.

According to the City’s Stormwater Department, the storm moved through quickly and rainfall intensities stayed within what the drainage system could handle.

Officials say, however, this is not the time to be complacent, and this storm should serve as a reminder to prepare for the next one.

“We know El Niño conditions this fall and winter can exacerbate what would previously have been a typical rain event in San Diego,” said Assistant Chief Rob Rezende, who oversees the City’s Office of Emergency Services. “While it can be difficult to predict the impacts of every storm, being prepared for the worst will only help keep families and communities safe and more resilient.”

San Diegans are encouraged to determine if they live in a flood zone, to make a plan in case they need to evacuate quickly, and to create a “go kit” with necessary supplies for themselves and their loved ones. Tips and resources are available at sandiego.gov/ElNino. Signing up for emergency alerts is also critical to stay informed about weather events.

Ahead of any 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.

In San Diego, 15,000 acres and more than 6,900 structures are located in FEMA-designated flood hazard areas. However, flooding can occur outside designated flood zones, so citywide preparedness is key.

Property owners and renters are encouraged to consider flood insurance. Through the City’s participation in the National Flood Insurance Program, thousands of eligible local property owners and renters receive access to a 15% discount on flood insurance premiums.