San Diego, California – City officials and emergency crews across San Diego are preparing for another round of rain expected to move in overnight and intensify early Monday, raising concerns about street flooding, hazardous road conditions, and swift-water emergencies in low-lying areas.
Forecasts indicate the heaviest rainfall is likely to occur during the morning hours, a time when commuter traffic could coincide with rapidly changing conditions. First responders say preparation and public awareness will be key to preventing injuries and dangerous rescues.
Emergency Crews Positioned Across the City
Marine Safety Lt. Ryan Foster with San Diego Fire-Rescue Department said his department has already taken proactive steps to ensure swift response times if flooding develops.
“The rain should be the most in the morning,” Foster said, noting that sudden downpours pose the greatest risk.
Foster leads a team of 25 specially trained swift-water rescue lifeguards, who are now strategically deployed throughout the city. Coverage stretches from the Tijuana River Valley to Mission Valley and Sorrento Valley, areas known to flood when heavy rain falls in a short period of time.
“Any time the rain comes quickly, a large amount of rain in a short amount of time, that’s when we have the most flooding in the city of San Diego,” Foster explained.
Recent Storms Already Triggered Multiple Rescues
The concern is not hypothetical. In just the past week, Foster’s swift-water rescue teams responded to 11 separate floodwater rescues, many involving motorists who attempted to drive through standing water.
At the same time, the City of San Diego reported that municipal crews handled nearly 300 flooding-related service calls, including blocked storm drains, water-covered roads, and other rain-driven hazards.
Officials say these numbers highlight how quickly conditions can deteriorate when storms intensify, especially during peak travel hours.
Driving Through Flooded Roads Remains the Biggest Danger
According to first responders, the most common and preventable cause of flood rescues is drivers ignoring warning signs or attempting to cross flooded intersections.
“Typically, people are driving through intersections that are flooded or going around signage that tells them not to drive through a certain area,” Foster said.
He stressed that even shallow-looking water can hide serious dangers, including strong currents, open drains, or road damage beneath the surface.
“Any flooded roadway is going to be a hazard to you or your family,” Foster said. “We’re asking you to stop, turn around, and find an alternate route.”
Preparedness Measures and Public Resources
While emergency units are positioned in known trouble spots, officials are urging residents to take precautions ahead of the storm.
Sandbags are available free of charge at San Diego fire stations, particularly for residents in flood-prone neighborhoods. These can help divert water away from homes, garages, and driveways.
Residents are also encouraged to report flooding, fallen debris, or other storm-related hazards using the Get It Done app, which allows city crews to respond more quickly to emerging issues.
Officials recommend staying informed through weather alerts and local advisories, especially if rainfall rates increase or flash flooding warnings are issued.
Conclusion
With rain expected to intensify early Monday, San Diego officials are urging residents to remain cautious, avoid flooded roads, and use available city resources to protect property and personal safety. Emergency crews are ready to respond, but authorities emphasize that many dangerous situations can be avoided through awareness and patience during storms.
If you experience flooding or hazardous conditions in your area, report them promptly and prioritize safety over travel convenience. Share your experiences in the comments below.
