Scientists and government agencies are predicting that this year’s El Niño will most likely be the strongest one since 1950. In anticipation of the heavy wind and rains the storms will bring, Governor Gavin Newsom declared a statewide state of emergency on September 21.
Here in Alameda, residents can expect potential flooding, fallen trees, and power outages. Alameda City Manager Gerry Beaudin assured residents by telling the Alameda Post in an email, “While the impacts can be challenging, the City is as prepared as possible, and we are encouraging the community to be prepared as well.”
The City’s Public Works Department is clearing storm drains to mitigate flooding and the City is prepared to respond to emergencies. “City employees are all disaster service workers, meaning we show up and respond to weather-related or other emergencies, whatever the impacts may be,” said Beaudin.
Residents on the island are encouraged to prepare themselves now for El Niño ahead of the heavy storms expected during winter and spring. According to Public Works Director Erin Smith, the top two things residents should do are:
- Prepare your property for heavy rain:
- Clear leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts
- Keep leaves and yard waste out of the street
- Address any needed roof repairs or potentially hazardous trees on private property
- Prepare your household for severe weather:
- Have an emergency plan and supplies ready
- Sign up for AC Alert to receive emergency alerts
Sandbags are also available to residents starting October 6 at the corner of Lexington and W. Hope streets.
Once a storm hits, residents should park their cars and place their garbage cans one foot from the curb so that stormwater can flow freely…