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San Diego emergency services preparing for significant rainfall

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — “Our city crews are ready and prepared for any need that may come. They will be on duty all weekend,” said Candace Hadley, media manager for the San Diego Fire Rescue Department.

It’s a reassuring message as San Diego Fire Rescue (SDFD) monitors conditions ahead of a major rainstorm heading toward San Diego.

“This helps us pre-position crews and make resources available depending on where the weather is harshest,” Hadley said.

But the National Weather Service says it’s too early to tell exactly which areas will see the heaviest rain.

“When we get a little closer — when we see actual rain on the radar — we’ll be able to identify where higher totals might fall. But there’s still a lot of uncertainty right now,” said National Weather Service meteorologist David Munyan.

Still, forecasters say this system will bring significant amounts of precipitation to the region.

“Overall we think this will still be a pretty significant rainfall event. Several inches of rainfall for some valleys and urban areas,” Munyan said.

Munyan says it’s unusual for Southern California to see this much rain over such a long period of time, and flooding is a real concern.

“Flooding will always be a concern if we get as much rain as predicted,” Munyan said.

Municipality and district teams continue their work on this issue. SDFD said swift water crews and lifeguards are ready for action if needed.

“…and that includes our lifeguards. We have swift water rescue teams. If we see the need, we will pre-position them throughout the area,” Hadley said.

The city’s stormwater department also clears clogged drains and sweeps streets to keep trash and debris out of local waterways.

SDFD also reminds drivers to slow down, allow extra space, follow signs and never drive through flooded areas.

“…if you have any concerns, please report them via the handle them app and our teams will respond as soon as possible,” Hadley said.

To help protect property, San Diego County and Cal Fire are providing free sandbags at fire stations in unincorporated areas. A. full list of locations You can access it on the district’s website.

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