Be Storm Ready

Heavy rain and storms can increase the risk of flooding, sewer backups, power outages, and other emergencies. WCW works year-round to maintain the public sewer system, prepare for wet weather, and help protect the health and safety of our community.

As part of these efforts, you may receive notifications about maintenance or flood-preparation activities in your neighborhood. While WCW works to keep the public sewer system functioning safely and reliably, there are also steps you can take to protect your household. With a strong El Niño expected for the winter of 2026/27, it’s more important than ever for both WCW and your family to be ready for storms.

Sign up for local emergency alerts and monitor weather forecasts, especially during heavy rain.

Clear leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts and consider sandbags in areas vulnerable to flooding.

Prepare essential supplies, identify safe evacuation routes, and discuss what to do during an emergency with your household.

Keep fats, oils, grease, and wipes out of drains and toilets. Never connect roof drains or other stormwater drainage systems to sewer lines.

Find trusted information and assistance to help you prepare before, during, and after severe weather.

Contra Costa County Community Warning System (CWS)
Sign up for free emergency alerts by text, phone, or email for your address.

511 SF Bay
See real-time road closures, traffic, and transit updates before you travel or sign up for 511ALERT to get transportation-related notifications in the event of an emergency.

National Weather Service – Bay Area
Check weather forecasts, watches, warnings, and storm conditions across the Bay Area.

Listos California Storm Season Guide (Cal OES)
Build a go-bag and household plan, with guides in 13 languages.

Contra Costa County Sandbag Locations
Find free sandbag resources for eligible unincorporated areas and guidance for residents of incorporated cities.

FEMA Flood Map Service Center
Know your flood risk. Look you your address on the FEMA Flood Map to get accurate flood hazard information for your home.

FloodSmart.gov
Learn about flood insurance. Most policies take 30 days to start, so don’t wait for the forecast.

Prepare with Pedro Activity Book
Free printable coloring pages and activities that help kids learn what to do in a flood and other emergencies.

PG&E Outage Center
Report power outages, check outage status, and find power safety information. For a downed power line, stay away and call (800) 743-5002, or 911 if it is sparking or smoking.

County Public Works Department
In unincorporated areas, notify the department if you see something that could become a flood hazard, or if you spot water rising or ponding on a street, a pipe leaking, a levee breaching, or a downed tree at (925) 313-2000 (after hours: Sheriff’s Dispatch, (925) 646-2441). For flooding or drainage issues within incorporated cities, contact your city’s Public Works Department.