The following update provides a status and ways for the community to prepare for the next storm, which is expected by January 4-5, based on the National Weather Service predictions.
CURRENT CONDITIONS:
- Flood risk is still high. While National Weather Service has rescinded the flood warning, staff is still monitoring and the community should continue to be on alert, and aware for flood warning and flood risk.
- Staff is monitoring water levels of the San Francisquito Creek and at this time, Pope Chaucer Bridge water levels continue to be high, and new reports show potential increases in water levels over night.
- Heavy winds are also expected, which can impact conditions further with debris in the creek and surrounding areas. Crews are monitoring for debris removal, as needed, at Pope Chaucer Bridge and other areas.
- Most roadways have re-opened. The El Camino Real underpass under University Avenue, however, remains flooded and closed at this time. It should be noted that staff is anticipating ponding to continue on our roadways, and road closures may be in effect this evening as a result.
- Arastradero Nature Preserve and Foothills Nature Preserve are anticipated to be open tomorrow, January 1.
PREPARING FOR THE NEXT RAIN EVENT:
There are several rain events anticipated over the next 10 days. Residents in flood risk areas should take precautions and prepare now.
- Get Notifications from the City: Police Nixle, SCC Alert, City of Palo Alto Twitter, Facebook, Nextdoor. Click here to connect.
- Use Sandbags to Assist with Future Flood Risk: Sandbag supplies are available at Rinconada Tennis Courts, located at the corner of Newell Road and Hopkins Avenue
For other ways to be storm ready, go here: www.cityofpaloalto.org/storms.
STEPS TO TAKE IF YOUR HOME HAS FLOOD DAMAGE:
- Start with your home insurance company and contact them for next steps.
- Gain sandbags to assist with potential flooding to prepare for future rain events that are predicted.
Overnight rain levels were three times what the National Weather System had originally forecast from December 30 to December 31, and water levels rose very quickly this morning. The current National Weather Service forecast notes clearing for the next few days and then further rain anticipated (much more expected than the December 30/31 rain incident).
