Free sandbags around the clock on Busch Road as the city opens a 'Storm Watch' push ahead of an El Niño winter

Pleasanton has started a citywide campaign called Storm Watch to get homes and businesses ready for a rainy season that the city warns could bring strong El Niño storms.

The city announced the effort Wednesday, Oct. 28. It pulls together storm drain maintenance by city crews, emergency preparedness information and advice on protecting property and lowering the risk of flooding.

"Preparing for severe weather is a shared responsibility," Interim City Manager Joe Calabrigo said in the announcement. He asked people to check their gutters, downspouts and private drainage so water can move freely.

Sandbags and sand

Free sand and sandbags are available all day and night for the rest of the rainy season at the self-service station at the Operations Services Department, 3333 Busch Road. Residents need to bring their own shovel, and the limit is 10 sandbags per household or business.

What the city is doing

Public works crews are inspecting and cleaning storm drains, clearing debris and maintaining drainage lines, the city said. Staff will track the weather and respond to storm problems through the season.

What residents are asked to do

Report clogged storm drains, standing water and other drainage problems through the city's MaintStar system. For emergencies or immediate safety threats, call 911.
Keep leaves and other debris out of streets, gutters and storm drains, and put yard waste in the green organics cart.
Sign up for AC Alert at acalert.org, Alameda County's notification system, to get severe weather, flood and evacuation notices.

During storms, the city asks people to follow official forecasts, stay out of flooded streets whether driving or walking, and follow directions from public safety agencies.

Storm Watch updates and tips will go out on the city's website, Facebook and Instagram accounts, its electronic newsletter and the Pleasanton Progress newsletter. More information is posted at cityofpleasantonca.gov/Storm-Watch.

Sources

cityofpleasantonca.gov

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