SAN DIEGO — It’s been nearly a year since a storm flooded neighborhoods in southeast San Diego and now the city wants residents to prepare for winter and the storms that may come our way.
In January we saw devastating flooding. The record-breaking rainfall destroyed businesses and homes. It left many families without a place to go. Now the city of San Diego is preparing for this year's winter rain.
"We have crews right now clearing channels as we speak," said Craig Gustafson, with San Diego stormwater department.
Many of the neighbors who we spoke to this year have blamed the flooding on trash that was neglected by the city. Since then, the city performed emergency maintenance after the January flooding and removed thousands of tons of debris. Now crews are out clearing the 18 miles of channels again. If you live in a flood prone area, you can expect to get a flyer in the mail. It has information to better protect your property and prepare for flooding.
"The number one thing we tell people is to get flood insurance. The good news in the city of San Diego since we have worked with FEMA and strengthened our program in the city of San Diego. All San Diego residents are eligible for a 15% reduction in their flood insurance," he said.
More information to check to see if you live in a flood plain can be found, here. Gustafson says the city also has a $235 million dollar drainage project in the works. It will widen storm drains and add new ones to allow for more water to flow through and help reduce flooding in high risk areas. Learn more about flood preparations, here.