By Khalida Sarwari
It’s been a dry fall and winter, but don’t put away the galoshes and umbrellas just yet; rain arrived Wednesday and more is predicted to be on its way this week. While it remains to be seen just how much of it will pour onto the Bay Area, it doesn’t hurt to start preparing now.
Saratoga city officials advised residents to get into the habit of being proactive about any potential storms by taking pre-emptive measures as heavy rains could spell potential flooding, fallen trees and landslides, all common occurrences in Saratoga during the winter.
Localized street flooding caused by clogged storm drains is a common issue in Saratoga. Flooding typically occurs after several days of heavy rain and with little to no warning. The best course of action is to stay away from flooded areas that are 6 inches deep or more, whether you’re in a car or on foot. If it is difficult to tell how deep the water is, assume the worst and avoid the area anyway. The Santa Clara Valley Water District has a dedicated flood protection website (valleywater.org). To learn what to do before, during and after a flood, visit saratoga.ca.us.
For residents who live near waterways, the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s flood zone maps are a great resource in helping determine whether property is in a flood zone and thereby eligible for flood insurance. The map is available online (msc.fema.gov) as well as at the city’s engineering department.
Sandbags can go a long way in keeping water away from properties, especially those that have driveways below street grade. A line of sandbags, for instance, can be used across the driveway entrance during a heavy rain. The city is making them available to residents at the Saratoga Corporation Yard, 19800 Allendale Ave.
Those that are unsure about how exactly to use them are encouraged to go onto the Santa Clara Valley Water District page for information as well as a map of sandbag stations throughout the county and a video on sandbag techniques. The California Department of Water Resources and California Conservation Corps also offers a two-page instructional flyer on how to properly fill and place sandbags.
Fallen trees are also among the more severe effects of heavy storms. Winter storms can produce enough wind to blow trees over and, at times, onto roadways. Residents are encouraged to contact the city when they come across a fallen tree that is causing an obstruction or safety risk.
Residents are also advised to properly maintain their gutters as they can be the first line of defense against the elements by directing water away from homes. The National Center for Healthy Housing, a national nonprofit organization, recommends homeowners clean out their gutters and downspouts twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. Clogged gutters can cause water damage to homes and property, while also attracting insects and rodents.
Finally, residents that have not signed up for AlertSCC yet are encouraged to do so to to receive emergency warnings and information through email, phone call and/or text message.
To report flooding issues during normal city business hours, call the city’s maintenance department at 408-868-1245 and county communications after hours at 408-299-2507.
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