SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Utility crews were hard at work Wednesday afternoon removing trees and clearing drains in Sacramento with stormy weather forecast. Local agencies said the big concerns about Wednesday's upcoming storm are the potential for downed trees and localized flooding.
Clouds darkened the sky during the day, but the storm is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds during the night. Winds may cause downed trees or branches that may fall on power lines and cause power outages.
“We are in a good position to weather this storm because we have been preparing all year. We have extra crews on hand,” said Carlos Eliason with the City of Sacramento Utilities Department.
Last year's storms in January downed trees throughout Sacramento.
Although this storm is not expected to be that strong, crews are working to prevent trees from becoming a problem.
Sacramento city crews also cleared drains because the storm could cause localized flooding if they are backed up.
The city and Sacramento County said residents can also help make sure drains are clear of debris by monitoring drains near their home.
“Before it rains, get out in front of your property, clear your gutters and make sure only the rain falls down the drain,” said Matt Robinson, a Sacramento County spokesman.
Sacramento County residents filled sandbags ahead of the storm.
Last year, floodwaters flowed through parts of Sacramento County, including the Wilton area, and covered part of Interstate 99. Three people were found dead after New Year's Eve storms.
While officials said rivers are not expected to be a problem in this storm, Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District crews are prepared to respond if quick water rescues are needed this season.
They also urge residents to heed an important warning.
“If you encounter standing water, don't drive through it. We say, 'Turn around, don't sink,' because we can't tell you how many times we've had vehicles drive through standing water and they've done that,” said Parker Wilburn, spokesman for the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire Department. They are stuck and need us to rescue them.”
Wilburn also said if you live in a flood-prone area, it's important to have an evacuation plan and know two ways to get out of your neighborhood.
If you experience any flooding, call 311.
See also:
California Storm Watch | Northern California communities are bracing for the coming storm
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