Be Prepared for El Nino

1/22/2016 (Permalink)

Storm Damage

The National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has predicted that a strong El Nino condition will continue through the upcoming winter. Forecaster consensus is that this El Nino could rank amoung the top three such episodes, in terms of strength, since 1950.

Many Cities have already started preparing for potential flooding through a variety of projects including a City-wide cleaning of every storm drain catch basin.

SERVPRO encourages residents and businesses to be prepared and following are some helpful tips:

*Clear gutters, drains, and downspouts after every rainfall to ensure proper flow.

*Appropriately prune large trees and remove green waste and other debris.

*Check to ensure there are no low areas next to your home where storm water might collect.

*Stock a supply of water, food, and medicine in case you lose power or cannot leave home.

*Ensure that you have working flashlights and charged batteries.

*If you live in an HOA, ask if their storm drains and retention basins have been check for proper collection and drainage.

*Check your roof for loose tiles, holes, or signs of leaks.

*Flood damage is not covered by regular homeowners insurance and California's Insurance Commissioner advises residents living in areas at risk for flooding to immediately purchase flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (www.floodsmart.gov).

*If your property is prone to flooding, have sandbags ready. They are available for purchase at home imporovement and hardware stores. The City of Palm Desert will make sandbags available only if severe storms cause local flooding. There can also be sandbags available at your local fire stations. More information about El Nino is available at a variety of sites including www.climate.gov and www.NOAA.gov.