Rain may be rare in Southern California–we live in a desert–but we do have weather hazards. Our region is prone to extended droughts, followed by intense storms. Seasonal weather patterns like El Niño and La Niña can increase the risk of flooding and other storm-related issues.
How to Prepare for Storm Season
Start with the basics: Have a plan for what you’ll do during an emergency, and make sure your disaster preparedness kit is stocked with essentials like food, water, flashlights, medications, and important documents.
- Visit our Build a Kit section on this website for what to include in your emergency kit depending on where you are.
- Learn how to make a plan in our Evacuation Planning section.
Before storm season begins:
- Clear out all drains and gutters to prevent water from backing up. If your building doesn’t have proper drainage, consider having it installed. Direct stormwater from roofs, driveways, and patios away from your home to prevent soil saturation.
- Check your roof or hire a professional to look for loose tiles, holes, or other issues that could lead to leaks.
- Inspect retaining walls, surface drains, culverts, and ditches for signs of blockage or damage. Do this before storm season and after every major rain event.
- Look for early signs of slope instability like cracks, slumping soil, or leaning retaining walls. If you notice anything unusual, consider hiring a geotechnical engineer to assess the area.
- Bare patches of soil in your yard can turn into mudflows during storms. Fall is a great time to mulch and plant native vegetation to stabilize the ground.
- Check nearby storm drains regularly. If you notice a clog or blockage, call Burbank Public Works at (818) 238-3800.
- If your property is in a flood-prone area, don’t wait until the last minute: Place sandbags before the storm arrives. Use them to direct water away from your home and entry points. For sandbag information, visit the City of Burbank Public Works Flood Control page or call (818) 238-3800.
Safety During a Storm
Heavy rains can lead to sudden flooding, especially when water falls faster than the ground can absorb it. Just 6 inches of fast-moving water can knock a person down and it only takes 12 inches to float a car.
- Never try to walk through moving water.
- Never drive into a flooded street or go around a barricade.
- Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
Floodwaters can hide serious dangers like sharp debris, damaged roads, downed power lines, or hazardous chemicals. Even large vehicles can be swept away in 18 inches of water.
Stay informed, stay indoors, and take storm preparation seriously, even in sunny Southern California.
