**Strong Winds and Heavy Rain Forecasted for Fresno: City Officials Prepare for Flooding**
FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Strong winds and heavy rain are expected to sweep into Central California, with the Valley floor likely to see impacts by Tuesday night. As much of the state braces for wet weather, Fresno officials are taking proactive steps to keep residents safe from potential flooding.
“We have over 1,800 miles of roads here in Fresno, and all of them serve as drainage channels to some degree. Each is equipped with storm drains and lined with trees—so those leaves often end up washing into the drains, and we have to clean them out,” explained Brian Russell, assistant director for Public Works.
Russell highlighted that the biggest issue during major storms is debris. City officials are urging residents to check around their homes for any hazards that could contribute to flooding.
“On a day like today, rake up the leaves and put them in the green waste container. Make sure you don’t have any trash lying around—get all of that picked up,” Russell advised.
Potholes are another concern. City crews have been working continuously to fill gaps in the streets ahead of the upcoming storm.
To further prevent flooding, Fresno has partnered with other agencies, including the Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District.
“The pump stations allow us to evacuate the stormwater out of the basin and downstream, which helps prevent any kind of localized flooding,” said Jarrod Takemoto, an operations engineer for the district.
Takemoto added that a basin in northeast Fresno can hold about four inches of rainfall. The district currently manages more than 150 drainage areas across Fresno County.
“Really, it’s all hands on deck from our standpoint—for our staff to make sure that we are protecting the community,” Takemoto said.
If you encounter flooding, downed trees, or other hazards while on the road, you are encouraged to report it by calling 3-1-1 or using the FresGO app.
Stay safe and stay alert as the storm approaches Central California.
https://abc30.com/post/fresno-prepares-flooding-storm-brings-heavy-rain-strong-winds/18310482/
