Storm Preparedness
Southern California storms can bring heavy rain, flooding, strong winds, falling trees, power outages, and debris or mud flows. Conditions can change quickly, especially near hillsides, low-lying areas, drainage channels, and roadways. Preparing before the rain begins can help protect your household and reduce the need to take unnecessary risks during the storm.
Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Never drive through a flooded roadway.
National Weather Service El Nino Briefing.pdf(PDF, 4MB)
Before The Storm
- Sign up for City emergency alerts
- Monitor weather forecasts and official City information
- Clear leaves and debris from gutters, downspouts, and drains on your property
- Check your roof for leaks or loose materials
- Secure outdoor furniture, trash cans, umbrellas, and other items that could blow or float away
- Trim or inspect weakened trees and branches
- Know more than one route out of your neighborhood
- Prepare your Home Emergency Kit and Go Bags
- Keep phones and portable batteries charged
- Keep vehicles fueled or charged
- Check tires, brakes, headlights, and windshield wipers
- Keep important documents protected from water
- Consider flood insurance if your property may be at risk
South Pasadena also recommends having materials such as sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting, and other protective supplies available before flooding begins.
During Heavy Rain
- Stay informed through official alerts and weather information
- Avoid unnecessary travel
- Slow down and allow extra stopping distance when driving
- Never drive through a flooded street or intersection
- Never walk through moving floodwater
- Stay away from streams, channels, washes, and flood-control facilities
- Follow road closures and barricades
- Stay away from downed power lines
- Be prepared to evacuate if conditions worsen
- Check on neighbors who may need additional assistance when it is safe to do so
Hillsides, Mud and Debris Flow
Residents near hillsides, canyons, steep slopes, or recently burned areas should pay particular attention during periods of heavy rain.
- Watch for unusual water or mud movement
- Look for new cracks, bulging soil, leaning trees, or changes in slopes
- Stay away from drainage channels and debris basins
- Do not attempt to stop a debris flow with your vehicle or by entering the flow path
- Follow evacuation instructions immediately
- Leave early if you believe conditions around your home are becoming unsafe
Mud and debris flows can occur rapidly and may carry rocks, trees, soil, and other debris. Their likelihood and severity depend on rainfall intensity, terrain, vegetation, and soil conditions.
Power Outages
Storms may interrupt electrical service.
- Keep flashlights and batteries available
- Keep portable power banks charged
- Avoid candles when possible
- Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed
- Stay at least 100 feet away from downed power lines
- Never use a generator indoors, in a garage, or near doors or windows
- Check on household members who rely on electrically powered medical equipment
After The Storm
- Continue monitoring official information
- Avoid flooded or damaged areas
- Do not enter closed roads
- Watch for downed lines, weakened trees, unstable slopes, and damaged pavement
- Avoid contact with floodwater
- Return to evacuated areas only when officials say it is safe
- Photograph property damage before beginning cleanup when practical
- Report hazards to the appropriate agency
Floodwater may contain sewage, chemicals, debris, and electrical hazards, so unnecessary contact should be avoided
Sandbags can help redirect shallow flowing water and reduce some types of property damage, but they cannot protect against every flood condition.
BEFORE THE STORM
Clear drains. Secure your property. Charge devices.
DURING THE STORM
Stay informed. Avoid flooded roads. Follow instructions.
AFTER THE STORM
Avoid hazards. Stay out of closed areas. Return when safe.