The city is urging residents to prepare for winter storms

On By Littum

Take steps now to prepare your property for winter weather.

With the first significant rain of the year expected this week and a National Weather Service wind advisory starting late tonight, residents should clear basement drains, check sump pumps, remove debris in gutters and downspouts and confirm they are registered for power outage warnings from PG&E.

With heavy rain forecast for the Bay Area this week and a National Weather Service Wind Advisory in effect starting Tuesday evening, take the time now to prepare for storms and possible flooding this winter:

  • Clean on and around your property as needed: gutters, downspouts, driveways and culverts. Remove litter and debris from around fences and gardens.
  • Clear basement drains.
  • Check submersible pumps and sump pumps to ensure they are working properly.

If your home has a history of flooding, it may flood again if significant rain occurs. Take extra precautions now to protect your property:

  • Have sandbags handy. Residents of Piedmont can get 10 free sandbags per household at the City’s Corporation Yard (898 Red Rock Road), Monday-Friday at 07.00-15.30.
  • Take pictures of every room in your home if they are needed for insurance purposes.
Plan ahead for power outages

During storms, damage to power lines can cause outages.

  • Sign up outage alarms from PG&E to receive status updates via SMS, e-mail or telephone when power outages occur at your address.
  • Have flashlights for each member of your household and spare batteries on hand.
  • Stock up on food, water, necessary medications, pet supplies and other essential supplies in case of road closures or multi-day power outages.

If you experience a power outage:

  • Unplug or turn off all electrical appliances to avoid overloading circuits and to prevent fire hazards when power is restored.
  • Leave a single light on to alert you when the power returns.
  • Turn on your devices one at a time.
During storms, call to report problems

During a storm, call to report clogged storm drains, downed trees blocking roadways, 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 5 p.m.
  • Downed power lines: call (510) 420-3000.
  • Sparks or smoking power lines: Call 9-1-1.