With the rainy season approaching and the potential for significant storms associated with El Niño, the City of Pleasanton is launching Storm Watch, a citywide preparedness campaign to help residents and businesses take proactive steps to protect their properties, reduce flood risks, and stay informed throughout the winter.
The campaign brings together the City’s stormwater maintenance efforts, emergency preparedness resources, and practical guidance to help the community prepare for potentially challenging weather conditions.
“Preparing for severe weather is a shared responsibility, and making early preparations can make a meaningful difference,” said Joe Calabrigo, Interim City Manager. “City crews are working to prepare critical infrastructure, and we encourage residents and businesses to do their part. Check gutters, downspouts and private drainage facilities on your property to ensure free flow of water. Take advantage of available resources and stay informed to help keep our community safe.”
Preparing for the Season Ahead
The City is taking proactive measures to prepare for winter storms, including inspecting and cleaning storm drains, clearing debris, and maintaining drainage infrastructure to help reduce the risk of localized flooding. Crews will continue monitoring weather conditions and responding to storm-related concerns throughout the rainy season.
While the timing and severity of individual storms remain uncertain, early preparation can help minimize potential impacts. Through Storm Watch, the City is encouraging community members to take advantage of the following resources and preparedness measures.
Free Sandbags Available 24/7
The City offers free sand and sandbags to Pleasanton residents and businesses preparing for potential flooding. Materials are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week during the rainy season at the City’s self-service station at the Operations Services Department, 3333 Busch Road. Community members should bring their own shovel and fill their own bags, with a limit of 10 sandbags per household or business.
Take Action Before the Next Storm
Residents and businesses can play an important role in reducing storm-related impacts by taking a few simple steps:
- Report drainage concerns. See a blocked storm drain, standing water, or other drainage issue? Don’t wait for the next storm. Submit a request through the City’s MaintStar online service request system to help crews identify and address potential flooding concerns. For emergencies or immediate threats to safety, call 911.
- Keep storm drains clear. Help prevent localized flooding by keeping leaves and debris out of streets, gutters, and storm drains. Place leaves and yard waste in green organics carts rather than piling them in the street.
- Sign up for AC Alert. Register at www.acalert.org to receive critical emergency notifications, including severe weather alerts, flooding information, and evacuation warnings or orders. Timely information can help residents and businesses make informed decisions when conditions change.
Stay Connected and Informed
Throughout the rainy season, Storm Watch will provide ongoing preparedness tips, seasonal reminders, and storm-related information through the City’s website, Facebook and Instagram channels, electronic newsletter, and Pleasanton Progress community newsletter.
Residents are encouraged to monitor official weather forecasts, avoid driving or walking through flooded areas, and follow instructions from public safety agencies during significant weather events.
Preparedness starts before the storm. By taking action early, using available resources, and staying connected to reliable information, Pleasanton residents and businesses can help reduce storm-related risks and strengthen the community’s readiness for the season ahead.
For more information about Storm Watch and available preparedness resources, visit www.CityofPleasantonCA.gov/Storm-Watch.