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Hazard Overview
Hazard Overview
While flash floods may occur year-round for San Diego and Imperial Counties, there is an increased risk during the winter months.
Flash floods can happen when heavy rain falls in such a short amount of time that the soil/ground is unable to absorb it, resulting in the water having nowhere to flow underground. It can also impact urban areas when sewers/catch basins are backed up and storm water is unable to escape the surface. The rainwater builds up and creates floods, especially in areas by bodies of water and in low-lying areas.
On this page, we further explain the hazards of flash floods and what you should keep in mine to stay safe during these events.
Flood Hazard Maps
Flood Hazard Maps
Click the links below to see the Flood Plains across San Diego and Imperial Counties.
San Diego County
San Diego County
Search for your Address
Click the "Map Layers" icon on the top right, click the ">" symbol next to Ecology/Hydrology, and click the eye symbol next to "Floodplain". Enter your address in the "Search Bar" to determine if your address is in a Flood Plain zone.
Imperial County
Imperial County
Evacuation Order vs Warning
Evacuation Order vs Warning
An evacuation warning means there is a potential threat to life and/or property. The threat to life is not yet imminent. The warning is designed to allow people additional time to evacuate. Be sure to have a plan!
County of San Diego: Make a Plan Booklets
An evacuation order means there is an immediate threat to life. It's a lawful order to leave the area right away. The area is lawfully closed to public access.
When an evacuation warning is issued, those who require additional time to evacuate, and those with pets and livestock should leave now. If you feel unsafe, do not wait for an evacuation order, leave immediately.
Storm Preparedness - San Diego County
Storm Preparedness - San Diego County
Getting prepared for a storm is a team effort. City crews are working hard to prepare storm drains, roadways and City facilities. This effort also requires help from San Diego residents and businesses.
BEFORE IT RAINS
BEFORE IT RAINS
Report non-emergency problems including but not limited to blocked storm drains, potholes and broken street lights via the Get it Done app.
Sign up for Alert San Diego notifications for all your telephone numbers.
Create a family communication plan to stay in touch with loved ones.
Prepare your pets. Have transportation ready for all larger animals under your responsibility.
If needed, empty sandbags are available at the following locations. Sandbags are limited to 10 bags per City of San Diego household or business, and sand is not always provided. Visit the Alert San Diego website to see points of distribution, some of which may have sand onsite. Always call the facility before you visit to confirm that they have available supplies.
Prepare your home for an emergency.
Visit the FEMA Flood Map Service Center to find your official flood map, access a range of other flood hazard products, and take advantage of tools for better understanding flood risks.
Know the safest routes to and from home should flooding occur.
Prepare your small business for an emergency.
When placing your trash, yard, and recycle bins out on the street for collection, place each bin approximately two to three feet away from the curb, so they do not impede the stormwater flowing on the street.
Sweep up trash, sediment, and debris, and dispose of construction waste in the trash to avoid having these items enter and block the stormwater collection system.
WHEN RAIN ARRIVES
WHEN RAIN ARRIVES
Report flooding to the City's emergency dispatch center at 619-527-7500
For life-threatening emergencies call 9-1-1.
Report downed electrical lines or gas emergencies to San Diego Gas & Electric at 800-411-7343.
Leave early if your property is in a flood zone. Water levels can rise fast once storms start. Do not hesitate to move if you see rising water.
Follow all instructions issued by public safety personnel.
Drive carefully! Take your time getting home or to work.
Slow down and do not drive through standing water. Know a safe route out. Folleto en Español.
AFTER RAIN PASSES
AFTER RAIN PASSES
Report non-emergency problems, including but not limited to blocked storm drains, potholes, and broken street lights via the Get it Done app.
Contact your property insurance carrier to report damages to your property and learn how to file a claim with the City for flood damage.
Storm Preparedness - Imperial County
Storm Preparedness - Imperial County
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