Local
Santa Clara County water agency speeds flood preparations as El Niño threat grows
Valley Water declared a precautionary emergency to accelerate purchases and flood-response preparations ahead of a potentially wet winter. Crews have maintained streams at about 150 locations since June, and residents are urged to sign up for alerts and find sandbag stations.
Santa Clara Valley Water declared a precautionary emergency in Santa Clara County on Oct. 20, giving the agency more flexibility to buy equipment, build up flood supplies and hire services as officials prepare for potentially severe winter storms.
The action follows Gov. Gavin Newsom’s statewide emergency proclamation last month, issued after forecasts pointed to a strengthening El Niño pattern that could bring above-average rainfall to Northern California. The declaration is a preparedness measure; it does not mean flooding is certain.
Valley Water said crews have carried out stream maintenance at roughly 150 locations since June to reduce flood risk. The work typically ends in mid-October, but dry conditions this month have allowed crews to continue, the agency said.
Interim CEO Melanie Richardson urged residents to make emergency plans and prepare for flooding. People can also sign up for local alerts and locate free sandbag stations. Valley Water’s flood-preparedness information is available at valleywater.org/floodready.