Flood Preparedness

Anticipated storms may bring heavy rains and flooding to Northern California this winter. Scientists say a number of factors influence the amount of precipitation that will actually fall. Napa County Office of Emergency Services (OES) wants you to be prepared for the worst-case scenario. This information can help you make informed decisions about how to be safe.

View Glass and LNU fire post-fire weather risk from USGS

How to Prepare

  • Check your property.
  • Clear drains, rain gutters and downspouts of debris.
  • Trim trees and landscaping as needed to ensure that branches and limbs are clear of your structure and clear from overhead power lines (contact PG&E with powerline concerns).
  • Inspect your roof for any signs of damage or needed repairs. Make arrangements for the repairs before water starts to leak inside your property.
  • Stabilize slopes on your property to prevent mud and landslides.
  • Secure outdoor furniture and other loose items from causing damage during periods of heavy winds.

Sandbags

Use sandbags in areas known for flooding around your property.

  • Most home improvement stores have sandbags for sale.
  • Prior to a storm (generally 48 hours before a storm) and during regular business hours, sandbags are available to residents on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Sandbag locations (PDF)

Make Plans

  • Make an emergency plan for your family and build a disaster supply kit.
  • Remember that local phone lines may be busy during a disaster, so designate a family member to contact outside of the area.
  • Stock up on food, water and medicine so you don’t have to go out during the storms. This El Niño season is predicted to bring periods of long, back-to-back storms that may make it difficult to run your everyday errands.
  • Don’t forget about your pet’s needs. Stock up on their food and medicine too and make sure their ID tags are up to date. Download the free “Finding Rover” app.
  • Check on your neighbors to see if they need any assistance with storm preparations.
  • Review Napa County's evacuation information and 'Know your Zone'.

Get Connected

  • Get information in a timely manner.
  • Sign up for Alert Napa County to get notifications to your email or phone.
  • Get current information on storm events by liking us on Facebook and following us on Twitter.
  • Register for the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) to learn more about disaster preparedness, first aid skills, and being a trained responder for your neighborhood. During a disaster, first responders will have other priorities and may be unable to get to you. CERT members are trained to provide assistance to the community during a disaster.