Satellite images indicate that the warming of the Pacific Ocean near the equator has the potential to create an El Niño weather pattern for the Coachella Valley this fall, winter and into the spring. A typical El Niño can bring more than normal rainfall as well as cooler temperatures to our area.
In a desert climate, moderate rainfall, especially in a short amount of time, can create flash flooding conditions. Residents should take the following steps now to help mitigate its effects and protect your property.
Tips to Prepare for Heavy Rainfall:
- Clean debris from rain runoff points, gutters & drains.
- Clean debris around your property’s perimeter along fences / block walls
- Clear yard waste or limbs which could block rain runoff
- Remove sand berms, around grassed areas, to allow rain runoff from depressed yards
- Remove blow sand, which could block rain runoff
- Check landscaped areas to make sure rain flows away from residential living & storage areas and away from commercial business entry points
Free Sandbags Available for Residents:
The City of Cathedral City offers free sand and sand bags for residents in order to help in the prevention of flooding. Contact Deanna Pressgrove, Public Works Department, for more information (760) 770-0369 or DPressgrove@cathedralcity.gov.
Contact Information during a Flood Situation:
In the event of an emergency, dial 9-1-1.
Non-emergency issues, dial (760) 770-8200 (Mon. – Thurs. 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. for information or (760) 770-0300 for assistance after hours by selecting “Dispatch”
Emergency Shelters:
In coordination with the Coachella Valley Red Cross, shelter locations can be opened at the following locations;
Cathedral City High School, 69250 Dinah Shore Drive
Mt. San Jacinto High School, 30800 Landau Boulevard
Only one shelter or an alternate shelter may be opened, based on the type of incident.
During extended rainfall or flooding Cathedral City residents should listen for emergency broadcast information on local television and radio stations, and public service announcements can be available on www.cathedralcity.gov or www.DiscoverCathedralCity.com
El Niño – Flash Flood Preparedness Tips Flier
El-Niño-Tips