Prepare for this weekend's storm and expected heavy rains

What to expect

The National Weather Service is predicting a strong storm system will begin moving into the Bay Area beginning Friday evening, Jan. 6.

A wind advisory has been issued for our area Saturday 4 a.m.–1 p.m. with sustained winds of 25-35 mph and gusts up to 40 mph.

A flash flood watch has been issued beginning Saturday afternoon through Sunday evening. The Santa Cruz Mountains are expected to receive as much as 10–12 inches of rain. This will fall on already saturated soil in the San Francisquito Creek watershed area. Locally, Menlo Park is forecast to receive 1–1.5 inches each day, Saturday and Sunday.

The most likely chance of creek flooding is during this weekend's higher than usual tides, however residents are advised to stay vigilant and follow the local creek level monitor or flood warning system.

High tide forecast

Saturday, Jan. 7 at 7:53 a.m. (~8.8 ft) and 8:40 p.m. (6.5 ft)
Sunday, Jan. 8 at 8:45 a.m. (~9.2 ft) and 9:51 p.m. (~6.6 ft)

The combination of higher tides and rainfall increases the possibility of localized ponding and flooding.

The City of Menlo Park maintains three sandbag stations for residents to pick up sandbags.

Sandbag station locations

Alma Street and Burgess Drive
Laurel Avenue and Pope Street
Fire Station 77 at 1467 Chilco St.

Filled sand bags are provided while supplies last, then sand and empty sand bags will be available. Please bring your own shovel.

Additional information is located on the City’s website at menlopark.org/storms

Residents are encouraged to be proactive and prepare their homes and their families for the storm:

Clear debris including leaves and vegetation from gutters and drains.
Secure loose outdoor objects including decorations, patio furniture, etc.
Motorists are urged to slow down and drive with caution during and after heavy rains due to wet conditions, potential roadway flooding and possible debris in the road.

City staff, including Police and Public Works department personnel, will be monitoring the storm and available to respond to flooding and other weather-related emergencies.

Resources and contacts

Pacific Gas & Electric
If you smell natural gas, see downed powerlines, or suspect another emergency situation, leave the area immediately and then call 9-1-1 or PG&E at:

24-hour Customer Service Line: 800-PGE-5000
24-hour Power Outage Line: 800-PGE-5002

Report street flooding and obstructions

Please report any street flooding or obstructions by calling the City at 650-330-6300.

Latest weather updates

For information on weather conditions, visit the National Weather Service webpage at www.weather.gov/monterey