Storm Update Archives

Published on March 09, 2023

MARCH 27, 2023 UPDATES

MARCH 27, 2023

4:00 P.M. UPDATE

The Palo Alto Rangers are closing the Pearson-Arastradero and Foothills Nature Preserves tomorrow, March 28, due to the possibility of high winds, rain, and falling tree limbs/trees.

10:00 A.M. UPDATE

According to the National Weather Service, wind and rain are expected late Monday evening, continuing into Tuesday. Awind advisory in effect through Tuesday afternoon, with possible community impacts as a result including downed trees and tree limbs, power outages, and water pooling in the roadways. Please be alert and use caution while driving and report any unsafe conditions.

For the latest forecast from the National Weather Service, visit www.weather.gov/mtr.

JANUARY 17, 2023 UPDATE

JANUARY 17, 2023

12:15 P.M.

CURRENT CONDITIONS

Light showers Wednesday, then extended dry weather is forecasted. According to the National Weather Service, you can expect light showers on Wednesday before sustained dry weather finally returns. The clear skies will bring colder overnight temperatures (between 36 and 42 degrees). Flood risk remains low in Palo Alto. Staff will be monitoring creek levels.

Storm Community Check-In today at 6 p.m. The Mayor and City Manager will be hosting a virtual briefing tonight at 6 p.m. to share storm-related information and answer community questions. Join us on Zoom or watch on YouTube (for those who miss it, it will be recorded). To participate and learn more, go here.

Parking enforcement to resume on Thursday. All parking enforcement City-wide will resume on Thursday, January 19. During the storms, the City temporarily suspended parking enforcement to allow residents in flood-prone areas to proactively relocate their vehicles to potentially safer locations.

Daily storm updates to conclude today. Today’s storm update from the City will be the last such daily update, ending 18 straight days of these communications now that the series of storms we’ve endured is coming to an end. Staff will continue to monitor National Weather Service forecasts and share community impacts as they arise.

REMINDERS

Here are some public places open this week to connect with neighbors and warm up. If you would like a place to warm up, recharge devices, check weather conditions, and connect with neighbors, the City’s libraries are open this week with their normal operating hours. Looking ahead towards the weekend and continued colder weather, starting Saturday, January 21, please note the new hours of operation for Mitchell Park Library and Rinconada Library on the following days: Mitchell Park Library, Fridays and Saturdays 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Rinconada Library, Sundays 10 a.m.-6 p.m. For a list of other warming center locations throughout Santa Clara County, call 2-1-1 or visit this webpage.

Select open space preserve trail closures continue, and Cubberley tennis courts closed. Storm-related trail closures continue to be in effect at Foothills Nature Preserve and Arastradero Preserve. Before visiting, please check the website for current conditions and closures. The tennis courts at Cubberley will remain closed until fence repairs can be made.

JANUARY 16, 2023 UPDATES

JANUARY 16, 2023

9:30 A.M.

CURRENT CONDITIONS

Isolated showers today. According to the National Weather Service, you can expect isolated showers throughout the day today, with a final small storm passing through on Wednesday before sustained dry weather finally returns. Flood risk remains low in Palo Alto. Staff will be monitoring creek levels.

Storm Community Check-In on Tuesday night. The Mayor and City Manager will be hosting a virtual briefing on Tuesday, January 17, at 6 p.m. to share storm-related information and answer community questions. Join us on Zoom or watch on YouTube (for those that miss it, it will be recorded). Learn more.

STREET CLOSURES IN EFFECT

Currently, the following street closures are in effect:

The El Camino Real underpass at University Avenue is closed in both directions due to flooding. As of 11:30 a.m. All lanes of El Camino Real have re-opened.
West Bayshore Road between Loma Verde Avenue and Fabian Way is closed due to flooding.
The northbound lane of East Bayshore Road between San Antonio Road and Corporation Way is closed due to flooding.

REMINDERS:

Monitor the forecast. It’s important to remain alert and aware of the forecasts, as conditions can change rapidly. For the latest forecast from the National Weather Service, visit www.weather.gov/mtr.
Report road and other conditions. Thank you to the community for reporting road conditions and other storm related information to us. Please use Palo Alto 311 at www.cityofpaloalto.org/311 or call us at the phone numbers listed on this page if you see any concerns while out and about in the community.
Be alert as road conditions can change quickly. If power outages continue, remember that street signals may be out as well. Treat dark signalized intersections as four-way stops. And as always when driving in inclement weather, please slow down, turn on your headlights, and allow for increased braking distance.
Need to warm up? Here are some public places open this weekend. If you would like a place to warm up, recharge devices, check weather conditions, and connect with neighbors, the Oak Room at the Mitchell Park Community Center will be open today from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For a list of other warming center locations throughout Santa Clara County, call 2-1-1 or visit this webpage.
Select open space preserve trail closures continue, and Cubberley tennis courts closed. Storm-related trail closures continue to be in effect at Foothills Nature Preserve and Arastradero Preserve. Before visiting, please check the website for current conditions and closures. The tennis courts at Cubberley will remain closed until fence repairs can be made.

7:50 A.M. UPDATE

STREET CLOSURES IN EFFECT

All lanes of El Camino Real are closed in both directions at the University Avenue underpass due to flooding. Please use alternative routes and avoid the area.

JANUARY 15, 2023 UPDATES

JANUARY 15, 2023

1:30 P.M. UPDATE

The Mayor and City Manager will be hosting a live briefing on storm issues to answer community questions on Tuesday, January 17 at 6:00 p.m. Join the meeting or watch live on YouTube.

Learn more.

11:55 A.M. UPDATE

CURRENT CONDITIONS

Wet and windy weather continues. According to the National Weather Service, steady rain develops this afternoon into tonight with lingering showers and thunderstorms through Monday evening. Gusty winds will continue as well. Flood risk remains low in Palo Alto, but please keep sandbags just in case they are needed. Staff will be monitoring creek levels. Continue to be prepared for potential power outages, downed trees, and adverse driving conditions. Staff are ready to respond quickly to any weather-related incidents.

Monitor the forecast. It’s important to remain alert and aware of the forecasts, as conditions can change rapidly. For the latest forecast from the National Weather Service, visit www.weather.gov/mtr.

Report road and other conditions. Thank you to the community for reporting road conditions and other storm related information to us. Please use Palo Alto 311 at www.cityofpaloalto.org/311 or call us at the phone numbers listed on this page if you see any concerns while out and about in the community.

STREET CLOSURES IN EFFECT

Road closures may come and go as standing water ponds and drains on certain roadways throughout the weekend. There are currently no road closures in effect.

REMINDERS:

Be alert as road conditions can change quickly. If power outages continue, remember that street signals may be out as well. Treat dark signalized intersections as four-way stops. And as always when driving in inclement weather, please slow down, turn on your headlights, and allow for increased braking distance.

Need to warm up? If you would like a place to warm up, recharge devices, check weather conditions, and connect with neighbors, the Community Room at the Lucie Stern Community Center will be open today from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and on Monday, the Oak Room at the Mitchell Park Community Center will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For a list of other warming center locations throughout Santa Clara County, call 2-1-1 or visit this webpage.

Select open space preserve trail closures continue, and the Cubberley tennis courts remain closed. Storm-related trail closures continue to be in effect at Foothills Nature Preserve and Arastradero Preserve. Before visiting, please check the website for current conditions and closures. The tennis courts at Cubberley will remain closed until fence repairs can be made.

JANUARY 14, 2023 UPDATE

JANUARY 14, 2023

10:10 A.M. UPDATE

CURRENT CONDITIONS

Be prepared for another wet, windy weekend. According to the National Weather Service, you can expect multiple rounds of rain throughout the weekend, with thunderstorms possible. These storms will bring moderate rain, more gusty winds, and the ongoing risk of potential flooding. The initial predictions seem to indicate that despite water flowing through our creeks, flood risk over the weekend remains low in Palo Alto, but please keep sandbags just in case they are needed. Staff will be monitoring creek levels. Prepare for potential power outages, downed trees, and adverse driving conditions. Staff are ready to respond quickly to any weather-related incidents. It’s important to remain alert and aware of the forecasts, as conditions can change rapidly. For the latest forecast from the National Weather Service, visit www.weather.gov/mtr.

STREET CLOSURES IN EFFECT

Road closures may come and go as standing water ponds and drains on certain roadways throughout the weekend. Current closures in effect:

West Bayshore Road between Loma Verde Avenue and Fabian Way is closed due to flooding.
East Bayshore Road between Elwell Court and San Antonio Road is closed due to flooding.

Be alert as road conditions can change quickly. If power outages continue, remember that street signals may be out as well. Treat dark signalized intersections as four-way stops. And as always when driving in inclement weather, please slow down, turn on your headlights, and allow for increased braking distance.

REMINDERS

Need to warm up? Here are some public places open this weekend. If you would like a place to warm up, recharge devices, check weather conditions, and connect with neighbors, all Palo Alto libraries are open today during their normal operating hours. On Sunday, the Community Room at the Lucie Stern Community Center will be open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and on Monday, the Oak Room at the Mitchell Park Community Center will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For a list of other warming center locations throughout Santa Clara County, call 2-1-1 or visit this webpage.

Select open space preserve trail closures continue, and Cubberley tennis courts closed. Storm-related trail closures continue to be in effect at Foothills Nature Preserve and Arastradero Preserve. Before visiting, please check the website for current conditions and closures. The tennis courts at Cubberley will remain closed until fence repairs can be made.

JANUARY 13, 2023 UPDATE

JANUARY 13, 2023

11:15 A.M. UPDATE

CURRENT CONDITIONS

The next storms are arriving now. According to the National Weather Service, you can expect multiple rounds of rain today and throughout the weekend, with thunderstorms possible. These storms will bring moderate rain, more gusty winds, and the ongoing risk of potential flooding. The initial predictions seem to indicate that flood risk over the weekend remains low in Palo Alto, but please keep sandbags in case they are needed. Staff will be monitoring creek levels. Prepare for potential power outages, downed trees, and adverse driving conditions. Staff are ready to respond quickly to any weather-related incidents. It’s important to remain alert and aware of the forecasts, as conditions can change rapidly. For the latest forecast from the National Weather Service, visit www.weather.gov/mtr.

Page Mill Road is closed again in Los Altos Hills today for sinkhole repairs. The Town of Los Altos Hills is having to close a small portion of Page Mill Road today until 5 p.m. today to repair a sinkhole that formed during the storms. The repairs, and road closure, began yesterday. To view the detours they’ve set in place, see their map here.

Colder temperatures forecasted into next week and beyond; Palo Alto and other locations to warm up through the weekend. National Weather Service forecast suggests colder temperatures are headed our way. A list of Santa Clara County warming center locations can be found here or call 2-1-1. Palo Alto locations for residents looking to warm up, recharge devices, check weather conditions and connect with other neighbors include most Palo Alto libraries. Libraries are open today and Saturday during normal operating hours, the Lucie Stern Community Center, Community Room is available on Sunday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Mitchell Park Community Center, Oak Room is available on Monday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Select open space preserve trail closures continue, and Cubberley tennis courts closed. Storm-related trail closures continue to be in effect at Foothills Nature Preserve and Arastradero Preserve. Before visiting, please check the website for current conditions and closures. The tennis courts at Cubberley will remain closed until fence repairs can be made.

Report road and other conditions. Thank you to the community for reporting road conditions and other storm related information to us. Please use Palo Alto 311 at www.cityofpaloalto.org/311.

STREET CLOSURES IN EFFECT

All Palo Alto roadways are currently open.

Driving safety reminder: If power outages continue, remember that street signals may be out as well. Treat dark signalized intersections as four-way stops. And as always when driving in inclement weather, please slow down, turn on your headlights, and allow for increased braking distance.

JANUARY 12, 2023 UPDATES

JANUARY 12, 2023

10 A.M. UPDATE

CURRENT CONDITIONS

A break in the rain; time to prepare for the next round of storms arriving tomorrow. According to the National Weather Service, today and tonight will be dry, but another storm arrives late Friday and lasts through the weekend. It will bring moderate rain, more gusty winds, and the ongoing risk of potential flooding. While initial predictions seem to indicate that flood risk over the weekend remains low, please keep sandbags you may have acquired over the past two weeks, just in case they are needed this weekend. Staff will be monitoring creek levels. Prepare for potential power outages, downed trees, and adverse driving conditions again beginning late tomorrow. Staff are ready to respond quickly to any weather-related incidents. As the next storm arrives, it’s important to remain vigilant and aware of the forecasts, as conditions can change rapidly. For the latest forecast from the National Weather Service, visit www.weather.gov/mtr.

Page Mill Road closed in Los Altos Hills today and tomorrow for sinkhole repairs. The Town of Los Altos Hills is having to close a small portion of Page Mill Road today and tomorrow between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to repair a sinkhole that formed. To view the detours they’ve set in place, see their map here. Note that if you’re intending to go to Foothills Nature Preserve today to take advantage of the break in the rain, this closure will impact your route; you will need to take the detour.

Regional traffic advisory: Highway 92 is closed in San Mateo County. An important arterial roadway to the San Mateo County coast is closed for sinkhole repair. Highway 92 is closed in both directions between upper SR-35 (Skyline Boulevard) and Pilarcitos Creek Road. The expected time of re-opening is not known. For current conditions, check the Twitter account of the California Highway Patrol’s Redwood City office. No Twitter account is necessary.

Trail closures at Foothills Nature Preserve and Arastradero Preserve are in effect. Be aware that there are storm-related trail closures at Foothills Nature Preserve and Arastradero Preserve. For the most current trail status, see www.cityofpaloalto.org/FoothillsNaturePreserve or www.cityofpaloalto.org/ArastraderoPreserve.

STREET CLOSURES IN EFFECT

All Palo Alto roadways are currently open.

7:40 A.M. UPDATE

ROAD CLOSURES IN EFFECT

Per Los Altos Hills, Page Mill Road is closed in both directions between Paseo del Robles and Arastradero Rd on Jan 12 and 13 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. for sinkhole repair. Please avoid the area and allow extra travel time. Find their detour map here.

Per the California Highway Patrol, SR-92 is now closed in both directions from upper SR-35 (Skyline Blvd.) to Pilarcitos Creek Road. Please use alternative routes.

JANUARY 11, 2023 UPDATE

JANUARY 11, 2023 - 11:15 A.M. UPDATE

CURRENT CONDITIONS

More rain and wind today. According to the National Weather Service forecast, you can expect rain through much of today with continuing high winds until this evening. Flood risk remains low at this time, and staff will remain in a monitoring capacity until dry weather ultimately returns. Staff are ready to respond quickly to any weather-related incidents. We are tracking a short break in the rain on Thursday, rain returns Friday, with that storm system moving into the weekend featuring moderate rainfall, more gusty winds, and the ongoing risk of potential flooding. While on a site visit to the storm-damaged Santa Cruz County coast yesterday, Governor Newsom warned Californians that the storms will be continuing well into next week. It’s important to remain vigilant and aware of the forecasts, as conditions can change rapidly. For the latest forecast from the National Weather Service, visit www.weather.gov/mtr.

Foothills Nature Preserve is open. Rangers inspected the Foothills Nature Preserve and found it safe to open today. Staff is planning on Foothills Nature Preserve staying open over the next few days. Some trails remain closed due to mudslides.

Power outage update. Currently, there are no power outages in town. With today’s windy conditions, staff remain ready to respond to any new storm-related outages that may occur. Track power outages at www.cityofpaloalto.org/outagemap.

Street sweeping remains critical. Proactive sweeping efforts help to keep the storm drains clear, reducing the likelihood of flooding or ponding during periods of heavy rain. Please be mindful of your street sweeping day and move your car. For more information, and to find your home’s sweeping day, visit www.cityofpaloalto.org/streetsweeping.

STREET CLOSURES IN EFFECT

All roadways are currently open.

JANUARY 10, 2023 UPDATE

JANUARY 10, 2023

12:45 P.M. UPDATE

CURRENT CONDITIONS

Current forecast: more rain on the way. Per the National Weather Service, you can expect showers for the next few hours, with thunderstorms possible, and then some dry skies until rain returns tomorrow morning. Flood risk remains low, though staff will remain in a monitoring capacity. Windy conditions will persist throughout much of the day, bringing a continued chance of wind-related issues including potential power outages. More storms are headed our way later this week, so check out resources on our website to prepare. While these future storms are potentially less significant than those we’ve already experienced, it’s important to remain vigilant and aware of the forecasts, as conditions can change rapidly. For the latest forecast from the National Weather Service, visit www.weather.gov/mtr.

Power outage update. Overnight and early this morning, staff restored power to approximately 4,500 customers who lost power due to a couple of storm-related power outages. The most significant one was caused by a lightning strike at 2:14 a.m. that struck a tree near Grove Avenue; the tree split and fell into power lines. Crews restored power to the vast majority of affected customers within two hours and completed restorations to the rest later in the morning. With today’s windy conditions, staff remain ready to respond to any new storm-related outages that may occur. Track power outages at www.cityofpaloalto.org/outagemap.

City Manager provided a storm response briefing at last night’s City Council meeting. The briefing shared details about the City’s continued response to the recent series of storms and their impact to the community. Watch the City Manager's briefing recording and learn more here.

Foothills Nature Preserve is closed today. Foothills Nature Preserve is closed today, while staff are assessing conditions with the hope that it can be safely re-opened tomorrow. For the most current status of the preserve, including trails that will continue to be closed until repairs can be made safely, visit www.CityofPaloAlto.org/FoothillsNaturePreserve.

Street sweeping remains critical during this time to support storm drain system. Proactive sweeping efforts help to keep the storm drains clear, reducing the likelihood of flooding or ponding during periods of heavy rain. Please be mindful of your street sweeping day and move your car.

Reminders:

Stay Informed: Get real-time notifications from the City via Twitter, Facebook, Nextdoor, and the Police Department’s Nixle feed. Receive emergency alerts via SCC Alert. Click here to connect. Track creek water levels at www.cityofpaloalto.org/creekmonitor. Learn about flood risk by viewing flood maps, available at www.cityofpaloalto.org/storms.

Consider using the hashtag #PaloAltoStorm. If you are posting storm-related photos and/or videos that were taken in Palo Alto on your social media accounts, please consider adding the hashtag #PaloAltoStorm to your post. This will provide an easy way for everyone on that platform, as well as the City, to share relevant Palo Alto-specific information with one another. As a reminder: Please note that the City will not be able to monitor that hashtag in real-time, and that any emergencies requiring a City response should be reported via 9-1-1 and NOT social media.

STREET CLOSURES IN EFFECT

All roadways are currently open.

JANUARY 9, 2023 UPDATES

JANUARY 9, 2023

5 P.M. UPDATE

CURRENT CONDITIONS

Per the National Weather Service forecast more storms are on the way. Today’s storm has passed, and the remainder of today will be dry with rain returning after midnight and turning to scattered showers through Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service. Flood risk remains low, though staff will remain in a monitoring capacity. More storms are on the way for later in the week. For the latest forecast from the National Weather Service, visit www.weather.gov/mtr.

One remaining power outage continues. There is one remaining power outage affecting 21 customers as a result of extensive storm-related damage to power lines behind Rinconada Library. Staff hopes to have this repaired and power restored by 8 p.m. this evening.

New storm-related content on our website. While we’re temporarily drying out between storms, it’s a good time to check out some new storm-related information on our website. Review answers to a list of storm-related Frequently Asked Questions, which can be viewed at www.cityofpaloalto.org/StormFAQs. Learn more about the City’s four stages of preparedness during an inclement weather event where there is a potential risk of flooding by watching a short video here: https://youtu.be/fdE9XDII6Lk. The City remains in the Monitoring phase.

Foothills Nature Preserve to remain closed on Tuesday. Foothills Nature Preserve will be closed again on Tuesday due to the storms and clean up. Several trails will see extended closures due to mudslides.

Gain real-time updates on storm impacts and stay informed on potential emergency alerts and warnings. Get real-time notifications from the City via Twitter, Facebook, Nextdoor, and the Police Department’s Nixle feed. Receive emergency alerts via SCC Alert. Click here to connect. Track creek water levels at www.cityofpaloalto.org/creekmonitor. Track power outages at www.cityofpaloalto.org/outagemap.

Consider using the hashtag #PaloAltoStorm. If you are posting storm-related photos and/or videos that were taken in Palo Alto on your social media accounts, please consider adding the hashtag #PaloAltoStorm to your post. This will provide an easy way for everyone on that platform, as well as the City, to share relevant Palo Alto-specific information with one another. Please note that the City will not be able to monitor that hashtag in real-time, and that any emergencies requiring a City response should be reported via 9-1-1 and NOT social media.

STREET CLOSURES IN EFFECT

All roadways are currently open.

10 A.M. UPDATE

CURRENT CONDITIONS

The latest significant storm is upon us. Despite a marked rise in creek levels earlier this morning, the current estimate and observed creek flow predict the highest flow around 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. today at a level that will NOT result in flooding, though staff are actively monitoring conditions. Power outages due to downed trees or wind remain a possibility throughout the day. Staff are prepared to respond as needed to incidents caused by this storm; please be patient as they will be balancing emergency response needs. The City recommends that you stay off the roads as much as possible. For the latest forecast from the National Weather Service, visit www.weather.gov/mtr.

Community Resource Center is open today from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Community Resource Center at Rinconada Library is open, if residents need a warm and dry location to relocate and gather. Visitors can also charge devices, use a laptop, etc.

New storm-related Frequently Asked Questions on website. We’ve compiled answers to a list of storm-related Frequently Asked Questions, which can be viewed at www.cityofpaloalto.org/StormFAQs. Topics include how to use Palo Alto flood maps to evaluate risk and how the City will notify the community about evacuations, should those become necessary at some future point.

Watch a short video to educate yourself about the City’s stages of flood warnings. The City created a short video that shares the four stages of an inclement weather event where there is a potential risk of flooding in Palo Alto: Monitoring, Flood Watch, Flood Warning, and Evacuation. We are currently in the Monitoring phase. Watch the video on the City’s YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/fdE9XDII6Lk.

Parking regulations temporarily suspended. While we’re not currently anticipating flooding, residents in flood-prone areas are welcome to move cars to a safer location. Options to park include surface lots in Downtown. Residential preferential parking (RPP) programs and timed parking regulations are temporarily suspended during the storm.

STREET CLOSURES IN EFFECT

West Bayshore Road between Fabian Way and Loma Verde Avenue is closed due to flooding.
East Bayshore Road at Elwell Court is closed due to flooding.

All other roadways are currently open.

JANUARY 8, 2023 UPDATE

JANUARY 8, 2023

11:45 A.M. UPDATE

CURRENT CONDITIONS

The next storm arrives tonight and will impact us throughout Monday and into Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service. Data suggests flood risk remains low for today in Palo Alto, but residents should prepare now for this storm and possible future flood conditions (see the “Storm Ready Resources” section further down on this page). High winds are also expected. Staff responded to multiple storm-related power outages and trees down yesterday and overnight; all customers are fully restored at this time. City staff are actively monitoring weather conditions and are prepared to respond as needed to incidents caused by tonight’s storm; please be patient as they will be balancing emergency response needs. All four sandbag stations are currently stocked with supplies; please save your sandbags for possible use in the coming days. For the latest forecast from the National Weather Service, visit www.weather.gov/mtr.

Foothills Nature Preserve remains partially open today, but will be closed tomorrow. Foothills Nature Preserve is open today, though with some trail closures in effect due to weather-related impacts. It will be closed to the public on Monday due to the storm.

Update on Creek Monitor page data. The sensor and camera at Waverley Street on our Creek Monitor page at www.cityofpaloalto.org/CreekMonitor was offline overnight due to storm-related impacts. It is back online.

STREET CLOSURES IN EFFECT

All roadways are currently open.

JANUARY 7, 2023 UPDATE

JANUARY 7, 2023

10:00 A.M. UPDATE

CURRENT CONDITIONS

The next storm arrives today, with another storm scheduled to impact us Sunday night through Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service. The flood risk remains low for today. More likely community impacts over the next few days will continue to be water ponding on roadways that bring potential road closures, and the possibility of continued power outages due to due to down trees, water, or wind impacts. City staff are actively monitoring conditions and are prepared to respond as needed; please be patient as they will be balancing emergency response needs as the storms continue. All four sandbag stations are currently stocked with supplies; please save your sandbags for possible use in the coming days. For the latest forecast from the National Weather Service, visit www.weather.gov/mtr.

Foothills Nature Preserve remains partially open. Foothills Nature Preserve remains partially open, as Open Space staff continue to work to clear debris to make roads and trails safe for visitors.

STREET CLOSURES IN EFFECT

All roadways are currently open.

Road safety reminder. If power outages continue, remember that street signals may be out as well. Treat dark signalized intersections as four-way stops. And as always when driving in inclement weather, please slow down, turn on your headlights, and allow for increased braking distance.

JANUARY 6, 2023 UPDATE

JANUARY 6, 2023

12:45 P.M. UPDATE

CURRENT CONDITIONS

The wet weather pattern is continuing, with the next storms arriving on Saturday and then Monday, according to the National Weather Service. The flood risk remains low over the weekend. More likely community impacts over the next few days will continue to be water ponding on roadways that bring potential road closures, and the possibility of continued power outages. City staff are actively monitoring conditions and are prepared to respond as needed; please be patient as they will be balancing emergency response needs as the storms continue. Crews are continuing to work on cleanup from this week’s storm in preparation for this weekend’s rainfall. All four sandbag stations are currently stocked with supplies; please save your sandbags for possible use in the coming days. While the Community Resource Center has closed, City libraries are all open today with their normal operating hours, if community members happen to lose power at their homes and would like a warm place to visit, relax, and charge devices.

Foothills Nature Preserve has partially re-opened as of this morning. Open Space staff are actively working to clear debris to make roads and trails safe for visitors.

STREET CLOSURES IN EFFECT

All roadways are currently open. If power outages continue, remember that street signals may be out as well. Treat dark signalized intersections as four-way stops. And as always when driving in inclement weather, please slow down, turn on your headlights, and allow for increased braking distance.

JANUARY 5, 2023 UPDATE

JANUARY 5, 2023

11:30 A.M. UPDATE

CURRENT CONDITIONS

Overnight water flow in all creeks remained far below flood warning levels. The flood risk remains low at this time, though rain and wind are expected to continue into the afternoon per the National Weather Service. The City is monitoring the next storm, with more rain forecasted for Saturday and continuing intermittently through next week. Crews are working to address five remaining power outages, with restoration expected by this afternoon for most customers.

City crews worked through the night. City crews from multiple departments were on duty throughout the night to assist the community. Public Works personnel responded to 33 calls concerning downed trees and 22 concerning flooding and storm drains. Utilities personnel responded to 10 reported outages, all due to downed trees or branches. Police officers and fire personnel responded to dozens of calls involving storm-related vehicle collisions, alarms, road closures, and other unsafe conditions. The City’s emergency dispatch center answered more than 300 total calls overnight. The Community Resource Center welcomed 15 individuals yesterday and overnight.

Community Resource Center is open. The Community Resource Center at Rinconada Library is open and will close tonight at 8 p.m., if residents need a warm and dry location away from their home to relocate and gather. Visitors can also charge devices, use a laptop, find a hotel, and determine next steps.

Prepare for power outages and be safe out on the roadways. Crews worked around the clock to minimize utility customer impacts and will continue to respond as needed. Please remain patient through today’s storm and future storms forecasted. Prepare for power outages by creating an emergency supply kit, filling your vehicle’s gas tank, and consulting your medical provider concerning any special medical considerations that may arise during an outage. Go here for a complete list of tips and resources for preparing for an outage, and ways to gain real-time information. The City is also reminding the community to be safe while navigating roadways which may still contain standing water or fallen debris, and not to touch downed wires or move fallen branches, which may be entangled with live wires.

STREET CLOSURES IN EFFECT

As power outages continue, remember that street signals may be out as well. Treat dark signalized intersections as four-way stops. One current road closure remains in effect:

Update as of 3:15 p.m.: Closure lifted for both directions of El Camino Real at the University Avenue underpass. Please continue to use caution through this area.

REPORTING DAMAGE

For residents whose homes sustained storm-related damage from the January 4 storm, or flood damage from the December 31 storm, please fill out the online form at www.cityofpaloalto.org/reportflooddamage, and City building officials will follow-up. The City has established a process to offer three nights of hotel accommodations at select hotels for those who we confirm have been displaced from their homes as a result of storm-related damage from the January 4 storm or flooding from the December 31 storm. Please use stormdamage@cityofpaloalto.org to request accommodations.

JANUARY 4, 2023 UPDATES

JANUARY 4, 2023

10:35 P.M. UPDATE

CURRENT CONDITIONS

Flood risk is low, but the storm is continuing overnight with a wind warning in effect. The storm is upon us. While rain will continue overnight, the flood risk is low. Staff will continue to monitor creek levels overnight as a precaution. The largest challenge now appears to be power outages that are being caused intermittently by the high winds. The National Weather Service’s high wind warning extends through the night, with gusts of wind exceeding 50 mph. Crews are on duty throughout the night to address these outages as quickly as they can. Please be patient as they will be working on power restorations while balancing emergency responses to other storm needs. To track National Weather Service storm updates, go to https://www.weather.gov/mtr/.

Community Resource Center is open. The Community Resource Center at Rinconada Library will remain open overnight until at least 8 p.m. on Thursday, if residents need a warm and dry location away from their home to relocate and gather. Visitors can also charge devices, use a laptop, find a hotel, and determine next steps.

STREET CLOSURES IN EFFECT

As power outages continue, remember that street signals may be out as well. Treat dark signalized intersections as four-way stops. Here are current road closures in effect:

Northbound El Camino Real is closed at the University Avenue underpass for flooding. Southbound El Camino Real at that location remains open.
East Bayshore Road between Elwell Court and San Antonio Road is closed in both directions due to flooding.
West Bayshore Road between Loma Verde Avenue and Fabian Way is closed in both directions due to flooding.
Embarcadero Road is closed between Middlefield Road and Waverley Street in both directions due to a tree down.
Southbound Foothill Expressway is closed at Hillview Avenue due to a tree down and also a vehicle collision.
One lane of eastbound Page Mill Road between Hanover Street and Peter Coutts Road remains closed due to earlier fallen tree.

6:30 P.M. UPDATE

CURRENT CONDITIONS

Significant storm is arriving. A significant storm has arrived, and the National Weather Service is still forecasting that the period of highest rainfall will occur overnight and into early Thursday morning. Any flooding risk that may occur will likely happen during the nighttime hours. There is also a high wind warning in effect right now, with gusts of wind exceeding 50 mph. Power outages are possible as a result; if they occur, please be patient as crews will be working on power restorations while balancing emergency responses to other storm needs. The National Weather Service has recently updated their forecast, and there may be a lower flood risk of the San Francisquito Creek than previously predicted. However, due to the likely nature of the creek to flash flood at times, and the high wind warning issued, the City continues to prepare for a significant storm response. To track National Weather Service storm updates, go to https://www.weather.gov/mtr/.

What to expect if evacuations become necessary. While staff is hopeful that no evacuations become necessary due to flooding tonight or overnight, we wanted to share in advance the procedure we will use in the event that they do. Please see the section “What to Expect If Evacuations Become Necessary” below.

Community Resource Center is open. Staff has opened a Community Resource Center at Rinconada Library as of this afternoon, if residents need a warm and dry location away from their home to relocate and gather. Visitors can also charge devices, use a laptop, find a hotel, and determine next steps. The Community Resource Center will be open overnight until at least 8 p.m. on Thursday.

Emergency Operations Center is open. Staff from multiple City departments have opened our Emergency Operations Center at City Hall as of this afternoon, and it will remain open continuously overnight. This allows staff to best monitor current conditions, coordinate emergency responses, communicate emergency information to the public, and liaison with our regional partners.

Sandbag station status update. Staff are regularly monitoring supply levels of sandbag supplies at our four sandbag stations and replenishing as needed. See below for locations and instructions on how to properly fill and place sandbags to protect your home.

Residents in flood prone areas are welcome to move cars to a safer location. Options to park include surface lots in Downtown. Residential preferential parking (RPP) programs and timed parking regulations are temporarily suspended during the storm.

STREET CLOSURES IN EFFECT

All northbound lanes are closed on El Camino Real at the University Avenue underpass due to flooding.

POWER OUTAGE

There was a power outage in Midtown, near Greer Park, and crews restored power at 8:30 p.m.

WHAT TO EXPECT IF EVACUATIONS BECOME NECESSARY

While we hope no evacuations will be necessary due to flooding later today or overnight, we wanted to share in advance the procedure we will use in the event that the City issues advisory evacuation notices. City Emergency Operations Center (EOC) staff are tracking the storm and are actively monitoring the creek flow. Here is the progression of notifications you can expect:

If EOC staff observe a measured creek flow indicating that overtopping (flooding) is likely, the City will send a message indicating that and list specific blocks of specific streets to consider evacuating in advance of potential flooding.
If EOC staff observe a measured creek flow indicating that overtopping (flooding) is imminent or already occurring, the City will send another messaging indicating that and advising specific blocks of specific streets that flooding is now expected and that you should evacuate immediately. From the time this message would be sent, we hope to provide at least 30 to 45 minutes before the flooding is expected to begin.

Please understand that our estimates of impacted streets and potential evacuations will be based on best available information. While other streets may be affected to varying extents, this information is intended to provide residents with awareness of current conditions.

Any such messages will be sent City-wide so as to make everyone aware of what is occurring so they can remain safe and take informed action. These messages will be sent in the following ways, with messages on all platforms containing the same information:

Via AlertSCC, with a link to the City webpage for the specific blocks of specific streets impacted. The AlertSCC system will attempt to contact users first by SMS (text message), then by e-mail, and finally by phone. To sign up for AlertSCC, visit www.cityofpaloalto.org/connect.
Via SMS (text message) and e-mail to subscribers of the Palo Alto Police Department’s Nixle account. To sign up for this, text your ZIP code to 888777.
Via City of Palo Alto Twitter, Nextdoor, Instagram, and Facebook messages. To sign up for these notifications, visit www.cityofpaloalto.org/connect.
Via the City website at www.cityofpaloalto.org/FloodAlert.
Via a recording played on the City’s Public Emergency Hotline at (650) 329-2420.

BE STORM READY

Find other ways to be storm-ready, and gain access to several flood maps. The various flood maps offer different levels flood risk. Based on flood management work by various agencies, these maps may show larger flood zones than exist today, though they could be helpful for community planning purposes. Visit our website at www.cityofpaloalto.org/storms.

12:30 P.M. UPDATE

CURRENT CONDITIONS

Significant storm arriving today. Per the National Weather Service, a significant storm is arriving today, with the period of highest rainfall occurring beginning this afternoon and lasting overnight into early Thursday morning. This means that the majority of the rain will fall after dark, and any flooding risk that may occur will likely happen during the nighttime hours. There is also a high wind warning in effect for the same period, with gusts of wind exceeding 50 mph. Power outages are possible as a result; if they occur, please be patient as crews will be working on power restorations while balancing emergency responses to other storm needs. National Weather Service recently updated their predictions, and there may be a lower flood risk of the San Francisquito Creek. Due to the likely nature of the creek to flash flood at times, and the high wind warning issued, the City continues to prepare for a significant storm response. To track National Weather Service storm updates, go to https://www.weather.gov/mtr/.

Community Resource Center opening. Staff will be opening a Community Resource Center at Rinconada Library at 2 p.m. today, if residents need a warm and dry location away from their home to relocate and gather. Visitors can also charge devices, use a laptop, find a hotel, and determine next steps. The Community Resource Center will be open overnight until at least 8 p.m. on Thursday.

Emergency Operations Center opening. Staff from multiple City departments will be opening our Emergency Operations Center at City Hall later today. This will allow staff to best monitor current conditions, coordinate emergency responses, communicate emergency information to the public, and liaison with our regional partners.

STREET CLOSURES IN EFFECT

All roadways are currently open.

PREPARE NOW FOR THE STORM

Prepare now, assist neighbors. Residents in flood risk areas should take precautions and prepare now to safeguard your home as much as possible. Please be a good neighbor and offer your assistance to your neighbors if you’re able.

Sandbags. Staff are regularly monitoring supply levels of sandbag supplies at our four sandbag stations and replenishing as needed. Please do not overfill the sandbags – they only need to be filled about 1/3 of the way with sand. Watch this one-minute video from our partners at Valley Water on how to properly fill and pack a sandbag. To learn how to protect your home from water using filled sandbags, watch this five-minute video from Valley Water. The four sandbag stations are located at: Palo Alto Avenue at Chaucer Street, Rinconada Tennis Courts (at the corner of Newell Road and Hopkins Avenue), Mitchell Park (600 East Meadow Drive), Palo Alto Airport Terminal (1925 Embarcadero Road)

Storm drains. If you have a storm drain inlet near your home in the street, consider using a rake and clearing any debris (leaves, tree branches, etc.) that may have accumulated over the grate. If possible, please place organic matter into your compost bins. This will help reduce ponding on our roadways for the next storm.
Stay informed of current and forecast conditions. As noted above, we encourage the community to monitor changes in the weather forecast. Get real-time notifications from the City via Twitter, Facebook, Nextdoor, and the Police Department’s Nixle feed. Receive emergency alerts via SCC Alert. Click here to connect. Track creek water levels at www.cityofpaloalto.org/creekmonitor
Report damage. For residents who have flood damage to their homes from the December 31 storm event, please fill out this online form at www.cityofpaloalto.org/reportflooddamage, and City building officials will follow-up. The City has established a process to offer three nights of hotel accommodations at select hotels for those who we confirm have been displaced from their homes as a result of flooding from the December 31 storm event. Please use stormdamage@cityofpaloalto.org to request accommodations.
Prepare now for how to turn off your home’s electrical power and gas, just in case. Take the time now to locate your home's electrical breaker box and gas turn-off valve. If water floods your home high enough that it might reach electrical outlets or any gas-powered appliance (furnace, hot water heater, gas-powered stove, etc.), immediately turn off the electrical power to your home by flipping all circuit breakers, and immediately turn off the gas to your home.
Residents in flood prone areas are welcome to move cars to a safer location. Options to park include surface lots in Downtown. Residential preferential parking (RPP) programs and timed parking regulations are temporarily suspended during the upcoming storm.

For other ways to be storm-ready, visit our website at www.cityofpaloalto.org/storms. This website also shares various level of flood maps with different levels flood risk. Based on flood management work by various agencies, these maps may show larger flood zones than exist today, though they could be helpful for community planning purposes.

JANUARY 3, 2023 UPDATES

A new storm is headed our way. We are asking the public to prepare now and stay informed. Our community is stronger together, please help neighbors and others who need help getting prepared. Read a new community update with additional resources.

1:30 P.M. UPDATE

CURRENT CONDITIONS

Significant storm with heavy rain and wind expected Wednesday to Thursday. Per the National Weather Service a strong storm will be arriving on Wednesday, with the period of highest rainfall occurring beginning Wednesday afternoon and lasting overnight into early Thursday morning. This means that the majority of the rain will fall after dark, and any flooding risk that may occur will likely happen during the nighttime hours. There is also a high wind watch in effect for the same period, with gusts of wind exceeding 50 mph. Compared to the impacts of the December 31 storm, the National Weather Service says to expect similar or worse impacts because of the storm arriving tomorrow.

Storm preparations continue. A multi-departmental City response is continuing to prepare for the upcoming storm and are in regular communication with our regional partners regarding preparations. Crews are continuing efforts to prepare the storm drain system for the coming storm, focusing on cleaning up from the December 31 storm. Crews are also staging equipment near where it will be needed most to facilitate a quick response once the storm hits.

New sandbag station set up. Staff opened a fourth sandbag station. This one is located on Palo Alto Avenue at Chaucer Street. This is in addition to the three existing sandbag stations (located at the Rinconada Tennis Courts at the corner of Newell Road and Hopkins Avenue, Mitchell Park at 600 East Meadow Drive, and the Palo Alto Airport Terminal at 1925 Embarcadero Road).

Community Resource Center to open on Wednesday. Staff will be opening a Community Resource Center at Rinconada Library’s Embarcadero Room in the afternoon on Wednesday, if residents need a warm and dry location away from their home to relocate and gather. Visitors can also charge devices, use a laptop, find a hotel, and determine next steps.

Closure of Foothills Nature Preserve announced for Wednesday and Thursday. The City will be closing Foothills Nature Preserve on both Wednesday, January 4 and Thursday, January 5 due to the incoming storm.

STREET CLOSURES IN EFFECT

El Camino Real remains flooded and closed in both directions under University Avenue. Please continue to take alternate routes. The time of re-opening El Camino Real remains unknown. As El Camino Real is a state-owned roadway, the City is coordinating with CalTrans as they have primary jurisdiction. City crews are prioritizing work that prepares the storm drainage system for the coming storm later this week.

All other roadways are open.

PREPARE NOW FOR UPCOMING STORM

Prepare now, assist neighbors. Residents in flood risk areas should take precautions and prepare now to safeguard your home as much as possible, particularly if your neighborhood experienced flooding during the December 31 storm event. Please be a good neighbor and offer your assistance to your neighbors if you’re able.

Sandbags. Staff are regularly monitoring supply levels of sandbag supplies at our three sandbag stations and replenishing as needed. Some City-provided shovels are available for your use, but you may want to bring your own shovel.
Please do not overfill the sandbags – they only need to be filled about 1/3 of the way with sand. Watch this one-minute video from our partners at Valley Water on how to properly fill and pack a sandbag. To learn how to protect your home from water using filled sandbags, watch this five-minute video from Valley Water. The three sandbag stations are located at: Rinconada Tennis Courts (at the corner of Newell Road and Hopkins Avenue), Mitchell Park (600 East Meadow Drive), AND Palo Alto Airport Terminal (1925 Embarcadero Road). As noted above, a new location was set up today at Palo Alto Avenue and Chaucer Street.

Storm drains. If you have a storm drain inlet near your home in the street, consider using a rake and clearing any debris (leaves, tree branches, etc.) that may have accumulated over the grate. If possible, please place organic matter into your compost bins. This will help reduce ponding on our roadways for the next storm.
Stay informed of current and forecast conditions. Monitor changes in the weather forecast. Get notifications from the City via AlertSCC, Twitter, Facebook, Nextdoor, and the Police Department’s Nixle feed. Click here to connect. Track creek water levels at www.cityofpaloalto.org/creekmonitor
Report damage. For residents who have flood damage to their homes from the December 31 storm event, please fill out this online form at www.cityofpaloalto.org/reportflooddamage, and City building officials will follow-up. The City has established a process to offer three nights of hotel accommodations at select hotels for those who we confirm have been displaced from their homes as a result of flooding. Please use stormdamage@cityofpaloalto.org to request accommodations.
Prepare now for how to turn off your home’s electrical power and gas, just in case. Take the time now to locate your home's electrical breaker box and gas turn-off valve. If water floods your home high enough that it might reach electrical outlets or any gas-powered appliance (furnace, hot water heater, gas-powered stove, etc.), immediately turn off the electrical power to your home by flipping all circuit breakers, and immediately turn off the gas to your home.
Residents in flood prone areas are welcome to move cars to a safer location. Options to park include surface lots in Downtown. Residential preferential parking (RPP) programs and timed parking regulations are temporarily suspended during the upcoming storm.

For other ways to be storm-ready, visit our website at www.cityofpaloalto.org/storms.

JANUARY 2, 2023 UPDATES

7:00 P.M. UPDATE

CURRENT CONDITIONS

Significant storm with rain expected Wednesday to Thursday. During a briefing with the National Weather Service this afternoon, staff learned that the latest forecast indicates that a strong storm will arrive on Wednesday, with the period of highest rainfall occurring beginning Wednesday afternoon and lasting overnight into early Thursday morning. This means that the majority of the rain will fall after dark, and any flooding risk that may occur will likely happen during the nighttime hours. There is also a high wind watch in effect for the same period, with gusts of wind exceeding 50 mph. Compared to the impacts of the December 31 storm, the National Weather Service says to expect similar or worse impacts as a result of the storm arriving on Wednesday.

Long-range forecast. After a period of light rain on Friday, the National Weather Service predicts a continuation of wet weather into the second week of January, with moderate rain arriving this weekend into early next week.

Storm preparations underway. A multi-departmental City response is underway to prepare for the upcoming storm. Crews will be staging equipment near where it will be needed most to facilitate a quick response once the storm hits.

Closure of Foothills Nature Preserve announced for Wednesday and Thursday this week. The City will be closing Foothills Nature Preserve on both Wednesday, January 4 and Thursday, January 5 due to the incoming storm.

Creek sensors fixed and staff continue to monitoring. The Chaucer Street bridge and Waverley Street sensors were both damaged during Saturday’s storm. Both sensors are up and running again, with staff monitoring the sensors and creek levels regularly.

PREPARE FOR THE NEXT STORM

Sandbags. Sandbag supplies (bags and loose sand) have been replenished at all three sandbag stations in the City, and staff will be monitoring supply levels regularly moving forward and replenishing as needed. Some City-provided shovels are available for your use, but you may want to bring your own shovel.
Please do not overfill the sandbags – they only need to be filled about 1/3 of the way with sand. Watch this one-minute video from our partners at Valley Water on how to properly fill and pack a sandbag. To learn how to protect your home from water using filled sandbags, watch this five-minute video from Valley Water. The three sandbag stations are located at: Rinconada Tennis Courts (at the corner of Newell Road and Hopkins Avenue), Mitchell Park (600 East Meadow Drive), and Palo Alto Airport Terminal (1925 Embarcadero Road)

Storm drains. If you have a storm drain inlet near your home in the street, consider using a rake and clearing any debris (leaves, tree branches, etc.) that may have accumulated over the grate. If possible, please place organic matter into your compost bins. This will help reduce ponding on our roadways for the next storm.
Stay informed of current and forecast conditions. Monitor changes in the weather forecast. Get notifications from the City via SCC Alert, Twitter, Facebook, Nextdoor, and the Police Department’s Nixle feed. Click here to connect.
Report damage. For residents who have flood damage to their homes from the December 31 storm event, please e-mail the City at stormdamage@cityofpaloalto.org and include the following information: First and last name, Mobile phone number, Whether or not you have flood insurance coverage, A brief description of the damage: did water get inside your home? What is the extent of damage to your home? Staff will follow-up with these residents. The City has established a process to offer three nights of hotel accommodations at select hotels for those who we confirm have been displaced from their homes as a result of flooding. Please use the same email above to request accommodations.

For other ways to be storm-ready, visit our website at www.cityofpaloalto.org/storms.

To monitor creek water levels and learn about other resources, visit our website at www.cityofpaloalto.org/creekmonitor

1:00 P.M. UPDATE

Here's an update on current conditions. Please be aware that more storms are headed our way. Take precautions now for these upcoming weather events.

CURRENT CONDITIONS

Staff are continuously monitoring water levels in our creeks. Flood risk remains low at this time, but a series of storms will be impacting the Bay Area this week and lasting for several days. The next large storm, which is currently forecast to arrive on Wednesday, January 4, is anticipated to be potentially more significant than the rain event we experienced on Saturday.

City crews are continuing to clean up and address the problems caused by Saturday's storm, as well as prepare for the upcoming storms. Crews are continuing to work on removing mud and debris from affected streets near San Francisquito Creek, which will help get the storm drain system ready for the next storm.

City staff are also continuing to assess flood damage to homes from Saturday’s storm. Please use caution with home appliances (particularly water heaters and furnaces) that may have been exposed to flood water and may need to be serviced by a qualified service provider or replaced. Information on how to obtain City building permits to replace this equipment can be found here.

Staff is continuing to troubleshoot problems with the sensors that feed information to the Creek Monitor webpage (www.cityofpaloalto.org/creekmonitor) at both the Chaucer Street bridge and Waverley Street. Both sensors received damage during Saturday’s storm. Staff hopes to be able to fix them prior to the arrival of the next large storm.

STREET CLOSURES IN EFFECT

All other roadways are open.

REPORT DAMAGE & HOW TO RECEIVE SUPPORT

Steps to report damage. For residents who have flood damage to their homes, please fill out this form to report flood damage. Alternatively, residents can e-mail the City at stormdamage@cityofpaloalto.org and include the following information: First and last name, Mobile phone number, Whether or not you have flood insurance coverage, A brief description of the damage: did water get inside your home? What is the extent of damage to your home?

Staff will follow-up with these residents. The City has established a process to offer three nights of hotel accommodations at select hotels for those who we confirm have been displaced from their homes as a result of flooding. Please use the same email above to request accommodations.

If you are taking photos of water damage to your home, consider including something in the photo to show proper perspective and document the depth of the water (for example, a measuring tape or a piece of furniture). This may help you accurately document damage for your home insurance company.

Pumping water out of homes. Due to resource limitations, the City is unable to assist with pumping water out of homes or basements. Please contact your home insurance company to determine what assistance they may be able to provide or recommend.

PREPARE FOR THE NEXT STORM

There are several rain events anticipated over the next 10 days. Residents in flood risk areas should take precautions and prepare now to safeguard your home as much as possible, particularly if your neighborhood experienced flooding during yesterday’s event.

Sandbags. Sandbag supplies (bags and loose sand) have been replenished at all three sandbag stations in the City, and staff will be monitoring supply levels regularly moving forward and replenishing as needed. Some City-provided shovels are available for your use, but you may want to bring your own shovel.

Please do not overfill the sandbags – they only need to filled about 1/3 of the way with sand. Watch this one-minute video from our partners at Valley Water on how to properly fill and pack a sandbag. To learn how to protect your home from water using filled sandbags, watch this five-minute video from Valley Water. The three sandbag stations are located at: Rinconada Tennis Courts (at the corner of Newell Road and Hopkins Avenue), Mitchell Park (600 East Meadow Drive), Palo Alto Airport Terminal (1925 Embarcadero Road)

Storm drains. If you have a storm drain inlet near your home in the street, consider using a rake and clearing any debris (leaves, tree branches, etc.) that may have accumulated over the grate. If possible, please place organic matter into your compost bins. This will help reduce ponding on our roadways for the next storm.
Stay informed of current and forecast conditions. Monitor changes in the weather forecast. Get notifications from the City via SCC Alert, Twitter, Facebook, Nextdoor, and the Police Department’s Nixle feed. Click here to connect.

JANUARY 1, 2023 UPDATES

12:30 P.M. Update

Happy New Year! Today’s weather brings a welcome brief respite in the storm systems. Please be aware that more storms are headed our way. Take precautions now for additional weather events.

CURRENT CONDITIONS

Staff are continuously monitoring water levels in our creeks. Flood risk remains low at this time, but a series of storms will be impacting the Bay Area beginning tomorrow and lasting for several days. The next large storm, which is currently forecast to arrive on Wednesday, January 4, is anticipated to be potentially more significant than the rain event we experienced yesterday.

City crews are actively cleaning up and addressing the problems caused by yesterday’s storm. Several street sweepers are driving through the City today to remove debris from gutters and inlets.

Creek sensors were damaged in the storm. The Creek Monitor webpage (www.cityofpaloalto.org/creekmonitor) provides helpful information during a storm to track water levels. Staff are actively working to troubleshoot problems with the sensors at both the Chaucer Street bridge and Waverley Street. The sensor at Chaucer Street was damaged by moving debris, while the network that serves the Waverley Street sensor was damaged. If possible, staff will fix both sensors prior to the arrival of the next large storm.

STREET CLOSURES IN EFFECT

El Camino Real remains flooded and closed in both directions under University Avenue. Please take alternate routes. At this time, the time of re-opening El Camino Real is unknown.

All other roadways are open.

REPORT DAMAGE & HOW TO RECEIVE SUPPORT

For residents who have flood damage to their homes, please e-mail the City at stormdamage@cityofpaloalto.org and include the following information:

First and last name
Mobile phone number
Whether or not you have flood insurance coverage
A brief description of the damage: did water get inside your home? What is the extent of damage to your home?

Due to resource limitations, the City is unable to assist with pumping water out of homes or basements. Please contact your home insurance company to determine what assistance they may be able to provide or recommend.

PREPARE FOR THE NEXT STORM

Sandbags. Sandbag supplies (bags and loose sand) are currently available at all three sandbag stations in the City. Some City-provided shovels are available for your use, but you may want to bring your own shovel. The three sandbag stations are located at: Rinconada Tennis Courts (at the corner of Newell Road and Hopkins Avenue), Mitchell Park (600 East Meadow Drive), Palo Alto Airport Terminal (1925 Embarcadero Road)

Storm drains. If you have a storm drain inlet near your home in the street, consider using a rake and clearing any debris (leaves, tree branches, etc.) that may have accumulated over the grate. If possible, please place organic matter into your compost bins. This will help reduce ponding on our roadways for the next storm.
Stay informed of current and forecast conditions. Monitor changes in the weather forecast. Get notifications from the City via SCC Alert, Twitter, Facebook, Nextdoor, and the Police Department’s Nixle feed. Click here to connect.

For other ways to be storm-ready, visit our website at www.cityofpaloalto.org/storms.

To monitor creek water levels and learn about other resources, visit our website at www.cityofpaloalto.org/creekmonitor

WAYS TO HELP

We are stronger as a community when we help those around us and work together during times of adversity. If your home is safe from flooding and you’d now like to help others, here are some suggestions for what you could do:

Check on your neighbors. Offer your assistance, particularly to those who may be elderly or infirm. Offer to help get them sandbags for their home if needed. Ensure they have a way to get current information on potential flooding or commit to them that you will monitor current information and share it with them when needed. Ensure they know they can call 9-1-1 if they need emergency assistance.
Help pack sandbags. Until we able to provide filled sandbags at the sandbag stations, there are empty bags and loose sand with shovels. It may be hard for some people to use a shovel to fill their own sandbags, or to load them into their vehicle. If you feel like helping to shovel sand and load vehicles, head to one of the three sandbag stations and see if anyone there needs assistance. See Palo Alto locations above.
Clear storm drains. If you have a storm drain inlet near your home in the street, consider using a rake and clearing any debris (leaves, tree branches, etc.) that may have accumulated over the grate. If possible, please place organic matter into your compost bins. This will help reduce ponding on our roadways for the next storm. Encourage your friends in other neighborhoods to do the same thing.
Report issues to the City promptly.
For blocked storm drains, sink holes, landslides, levee damage, and fallen trees, call Palo Alto Public Works at (650) 496-6974 on weekdays from 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. and (650) 329-2413 after hours.
For gas leaks and sewer spills, call Palo Alto Utilities Water, Gas, Wastewater Operations at (650) 329-2579.
For power outages and electrical problems, call Palo Alto Utilities Electric Operations at (650) 496-6914.

STAY SAFE – REMINDERS

Please do your best to stay safe during adverse weather events. Here are some safety reminders:

Driving. Please slow down in adverse weather and allow for extra braking distance. Do NOT drive into areas of standing water, as you will not know how deep the water is, or what the condition of the roadway is underneath the water. You may become stranded and then require rescue.
Stay away from creeks. Do NOT approach San Francisquito Creek or other area creeks; the creek banks could be unstable and give way. Do NOT approach areas of running water, even on streets. Running water can be exceptionally strong.
Only call 9-1-1 in emergencies. Do NOT call 9-1-1 unless there is an imminent threat to life or another serious emergency. Unnecessary 9-1-1 calls detract from our ability to promptly dispatch first responders to legitimate emergencies.
Do NOT remove manhole covers. That will not help drain water off of roadways and instead will create a dangerous condition for pedestrians and motorists alike.

STAY INFORMED

Stay apprised of current and forecast conditions. Monitor changes in the weather forecast. Get notifications from the City via SCC Alert, City of Palo Alto Twitter, Facebook, Nextdoor, and the Police Department’s Nixle feed. Click here to connect.

Stay connected on social media. If you are posting storm-related photos and/or videos that were taken in Palo Alto on your social media accounts, please consider adding the hashtag #PaloAltoStorm to your post. This will provide an easy way for everyone on that platform, as well as the City, to share relevant Palo Alto-specific information with one another. Please note that the City will not be able to monitor that hashtag in real-time, and that any emergencies requiring a City response should be reported via 9-1-1 and NOT social media.

Flood Alerts from December 31, 2022 Storm Event

8:40 P.M. Update

Good news, San Francisquito Creek water levels are receding, and the storm is passing, with flood risk at a lower level. Please note that the National Weather Service predicts a larger storm to hit our area by January 4-5. Staff will continue to monitor creek levels and share updates, as needed.

For residents that have flood damage to their homes, please email the City at stormdamage@cityofpaloalto.org and staff will follow-up. Please include the following details: First Name, Last Name, Email Address, Mobile Phone Number, Do you have flood insurance? Did water get inside your home? What is the level of damage to your residence. The City is establishing a process to offer three nights of hotel accommodations at select hotels for those who we confirm are flooded out of their homes. Please provide contact information at the above email address to coordinate this service.

See the previous update for additional details on ways to prepare for the next storm.

5:30 P.M. UPDATE

The following update provides a status and ways for the community to prepare for the next storm, which is expected by January 4-5, based on the National Weather Service predictions.

CURRENT CONDITIONS:

Flood risk is still high. While National Weather Service has rescinded the flood warning, staff is still monitoring and the community should continue to be on alert, and aware for flood warning and flood risk.
Staff is monitoring water levels of the San Francisquito Creek and at this time, Pope Chaucer Bridge water levels continue to be high, and new reports show potential increases in water levels over night.
Heavy winds are also expected, which can impact conditions further with debris in the creek and surrounding areas. Crews are monitoring for debris removal, as needed, at Pope Chaucer Bridge and other areas.
Most roadways have re-opened. The El Camino Real underpass under University Avenue, however, remains flooded and closed at this time. It should be noted that staff is anticipating ponding to continue on our roadways, and road closures may be in effect this evening as a result.
Arastradero Nature Preserve and Foothills Nature Preserve are anticipated to be open tomorrow, January 1.

PREPARING FOR THE NEXT RAIN EVENT:

There are several rain events anticipated over the next 10 days. Residents in flood risk areas should take precautions and prepare now.

Get Notifications from the City: Police Nixle, SCC Alert, City of Palo Alto Twitter, Facebook, Nextdoor. Click here to connect.
Use Sandbags to Assist with Future Flood Risk: Sandbag supplies are available at Rinconada Tennis Courts, located at the corner of Newell Road and Hopkins Avenue

For other ways to be storm ready, go here: www.cityofpaloalto.org/storms.

STEPS TO TAKE IF YOUR HOME HAS FLOOD DAMAGE:

Start with your home insurance company and contact them for next steps.
Gain sandbags to assist with potential flooding to prepare for future rain events that are predicted.

Overnight rain levels were three times what the National Weather System had originally forecast from December 30 to December 31, and water levels rose very quickly this morning. The current National Weather Service forecast notes clearing for the next few days and then further rain anticipated (much more expected than the December 30/31 rain incident).

2:40 P.M. UPDATE

The National Weather Service is noting rain to be intermittent/lighter rain in the forecast for the rest of the day, and clearing up for the next few days. Staff is monitoring water levels of the San Francisquito Creek and at this time, Pope Chaucer Bridge water levels are receding.

CREEK MONITORS:

The sensors at Chaucer St and Waverley St on the Creek Monitor page [www.cityofpaloalto.org/creekmonitor] are not functioning properly. Staff is monitoring both sites; water levels are receding. This will help to reduce flood risk this afternoon.

SAFETY REMINDERS:

Please stay safe. Do NOT approach San Francisquito Creek or other area creeks right now; the creek banks could be unstable and give way. Do not approach areas of running water.
Staff is working to remove debris, mud, and other related items from areas.

MINOR STREET FLOODING LOCATIONS:

On-street pooling has reduced and remains in certain portions of the Crescent Park and Duveneck / St. Francis neighborhoods. Please remain aware and do NOT drive through standing water.

CURRENT ROAD CLOSURES IN EFFECT/OTHER CLOSURES:

El Camino Real underpass at University Avenue is still flooded and not passable.
Alpine Road West of Highway 35, Highway 35 South of Grizzly Flat, Highway 84, and Highway 92 are closed due to slides and multiple trees down. Portola Road is closed due to flooding.

TAKE PRECAUTIONS:

Please take precautions if you live near the creek areas.
Place sandbags if you have them by entrances to homes, raise valuables from low to higher places in your home, make sure your vehicle is ready in case you need to evacuate.
Sand and bags are available for resident use at all three Palo Alto locations:
- Palo Alto Airport, 1925 Embarcadero Road
- Rinconada Tennis Courts, corner of Newell Road and Hopkins Avenue
- Mitchell Park, 600 East Meadow Drive

LIBRARY LOCATIONS OPEN:

For residents needing shelter from the rain, please note that Rinconada and Mitchell Park library locations are open until 5 p.m. today.

12:45 UPDATE

National Weather Service is noting lighter rain in the forecast for the rest of the day, and clearing up for the next few days. Flooding at Pope Chaucer Bridge is still occurring. Take protective actions at this time if you are near the San Francisquito Creek near the Bridge. There are potential impacts to areas in the flood zone from the creek.

SAFETY REMINDERS:

Don't call 9-1-1 unless there is an imminent threat to life or other serious emergency.
Do NOT remove manhole covers.
Please stay safe. Do NOT approach San Francisquito Creek or other area creeks right now; the creek banks could be unstable and give way. Do NOT drive through areas with standing water. Do not approach areas of running water.

MINOR STREET FLOODING LOCATIONS:

El Camino Real underpass at University Avenue is currently flooded and not passable.
Palo Alto Avenue between Chaucer Street and Seneca Street
University Avenue between Middlefield Road and Woodland Avenue.
Quarry Road between Palo Road and El Camino Real.
On-street flooding on certain portions of Hamilton Avenue, Seneca Street, Hale Street, Guinda Street, Pitman Avenue, and Martin Avenue. Other streets in the area are likely affected as well.

CURRENT ROAD CLOSURES IN EFFECT/UPDATES:

Quarry between Palo and El Camino Real
Palo Alto Ave between Chaucer and Seneca
Staff is reopening University Avenue from Middlefield Road to Woodland Avenue, and Palo Alto Avenue between Chaucer Avenue and Seneca Street.

TAKE PRECAUTIONS:

Please take precautions if you live near the creek areas.
Place sandbags if you have them by entrances to homes, raise valuables from low to higher places in your home, make sure your vehicle is ready in case you need to evacuate.
Sandbags priority location: The sandbag station at the Rinconada Tennis Courts at the corner of Newell Road and Hopkins Avenue is currently empty, but staff is working on acquiring additional sand and bags in the next few hours.

LIBRARY LOCATIONS OPEN:

For residents needing shelter from the rain, please note that Rinconada and Mitchell Park library locations are open until 5 p.m. today.

11:30 A.M. UPDATE FLOODING ALERT

Flooding at Pope Chaucer Bridge is occurring.

Don't call 9-1-1 unless there is an imminent threat to life or other serious emergency.

Do NOT remove manhole covers.

Take protective actions at this time if you are near the San Francisquito Creek near the Bridge. There are potential impacts to areas in the flood zone from the creek.

MINOR STREET FLOODING LOCATIONS:

El Camino Real underpass at University Avenue is currently flooded and not passable.
Palo Alto Avenue between Chaucer Street and Seneca Street
University Avenue between Middlefield Road and Woodland Avenue.
Quarry Road between Palo Road and El Camino Real.
On-street flooding on certain portions of Hamilton Avenue, Seneca Street, Hale Street, Guinda Street, Pitman Avenue, and Martin Avenue. Other streets in the area are likely affected as well.

CURRENT ROAD CLOSURES IN EFFECT:

Quarry between Palo and El Camino Real
Palo Alto Ave between Chaucer and Seneca
Staff is working on closing University Avenue between Middlefield Road and Woodland Avenue.

TAKE PRECAUTIONS:

Please take precautions if you live near the creek areas.
Place sandbags if you have them by entrances to homes, raise valuables from low to higher places in your home, make sure your vehicle is ready in case you need to evacuate.

Sandbags are available for use at the following locations:

Rinconada Tennis Courts, corner of Newell Road and Hopkins Avenue
Palo Alto Airport, 1925 Embarcadero Road
Mitchell Park, 600 East Meadow Drive

FLOODING ALERT: 10:10 a.m.

Flooding at Pope Chaucer Bridge is likely. Minor flooding is occurring at Seneca and Hale Streets by the Creek. Take protective actions at this time if you are near the San Francisquito Creek near the Bridge. There are potential impacts to areas in the flood zone from the creek. Place sandbags if you have them by entrances to homes, raise valuables from low to higher places in your home, make sure your vehicle is ready in case you need to evacuate.

FLOODING ALERT

San Francisquito Creek has reached flood monitoring stage and is continuing to rise. Please be aware of potential flooding and further flooding likely.

Flooding at Pope Chaucer bridge is likely within the next 30 minutes. Take protective actions at this time if you are near the San Francisquito Creek.

Sandbags are available for use at the following locations:

Palo Alto Airport, 1925 Embarcadero Road
Rinconada Tennis Courts, corner of Newell Road and Hopkins Avenue
Mitchell Park, 600 East Meadow Drive

Don't call 9-1-1 unless there is an imminent threat to life or other serious emergency.