Prepare for storms

You can minimize storm damage by preparing your property before a storm starts. During a storm, stay home if you can.

Need to know

How to report issues during a storm:

  • If you see downed power lines, stay away. Don’t exit your car or home. Call 9-1-1. Then call PG&E at 1-877-660-6789.
  • Report downed trees, flooding, or signals out to (510) 420-3000.

Before you start

Significant storms are becoming more common, especially during the winter. Watch local weather reports to know if a storm is coming.

Some preparations take time, like pruning trees and installing a pump in your basement. Other actions can be done quickly, like clearing a storm drain in front of your house or securing patio furniture.

Steps

  1. Sign up for emergency alerts.

  2. Clean on and around your property as needed: gutters, rain downspouts, driveways, and culverts. Remove trash and debris around fences and gardens. Keep the drainage system on your street clear of debris.

  3. Clear basement drains.

  4. Check submersible pumps and sump pumps to make sure they are operating properly.

  5. If your home is in the path of runoff, get sandbags to divert water and debris. Piedmont residents can get 10 free sandbags per household at the City’s Corporation Yard (898 Red Rock Road), Monday-Friday, 7am-3:30pm.

  6. Take photos of each room in your home, in case they are needed for insurance purposes.

  7. Bring in or secure any outdoor furniture or objects that could be picked up by strong wind.

  8. Make sure you have food and medical supplies so you can stay home during a storm.

What’s next

During a storm, stay home if you can. If you need to travel, drive slowly with extra caution. Don’t drive in water if you can’t see road markings. Make sure your headlights are on.

Call to report clogged storm drains, fallen trees that block roads, or other storm damage:

  • Fallen trees blocking roads or other storm damage to City infrastructure: call (510) 420-3050 during business hours or (510) 420-3000 after 5pm.

  • Downed power lines: call 9-1-1.

  • Sparking or smoking power lines: Call 9-1-1.

Power outages are common during storms. Learn how to prepare for them.

Get help