The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory beginning today with chances of rain increasing through the weekend in the Inland Empire.

The City’s Fire, Police, and Facilities and Community Services departments are taking the opportunity to remind residents and businesses of precautionary measures they can take to protect their own health, safety and property.

Non-emergency flood related issues should be reported to the Facilities and Community Services Department at (909) 798-7655. For any emergency situation that presents an imminent threat to life or property, call 911.

The City has a limited supply of sandbags available at no cost to local residents and businesses. Up to 10 empty sandbags are available per household or business within the City limits at each of the City’s fire stations. Fire Department personnel may not be available at all times depending on emergency calls. Residents are encouraged not to rely on this limited supply and to prepare ahead of time. Bags can also be purchased at most home improvement stores. Fill sand and shovels are available at the City Yard at 1270 W. Park Ave. Residents must provide identification and business owners or managers must provide information indicating their business is located within the City’s jurisdiction.

While the City regularly works to mitigate flooding, including regularly inspecting, repairing and cleaning the storm drain system and trimming trees along heavily traveled roads, significant rainfall can overwhelm the City’s existing flood control system and cause localized flooding on City streets and in the Zanja and San Timoteo Canyon area.

Residents are encouraged to take appropriate precautions to protect private property, including:

• Check rain gutters and drains to make sure they are clear of debris to help keep water from building up on or around your home.
• Make sure all irrigation systems are OFF to avoid adding to already saturated areas. City of Redlands irrigation restrictions prohibit watering landscaping within 48 hours of rainfall.
• If you have experienced land movement around your home, watch for water or natural gas leaks associated with shifting soils.  While relatively uncommon, an ongoing water leak can compound flood conditions.
• Drive safely.  Most injuries during stormy weather are directly related to traffic accidents associated with the weather. If you can make fewer trips or avoid being on the road during the storms, all the better.
• Turn Around, Don’t Drown® Never drive through flooded roadways. If you come to an area that is covered with flood water, you will not know the depth of the water or the condition of the ground under the water. Road beds may be washed out under flood waters.
  • Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling.
  • A foot of water will float many vehicles.
  • Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and pick-ups.
• Be aware of your surroundings and report wires down, significant mud slides, fallen trees or substantial flooding.

Additional information is available at the Emergency Management page on the City’s website at: https://www.cityofredlands.org/emergency-services to help residents prepare for heavy rain and potential flood conditions.