Richmonders are getting a rainy start to their Thanksgiving holiday week that is expected to clear up Tuesday evening, according to the National Weather Service.
Monday has been mostly rainy with a forecast high of 56 degrees and 5 to 7 mph winds expected in the afternoon, the NWS forecast says. Patchy fog is also expected.
The rain will continue into Tuesday though the chance of precipitation will drop to 40%, according to the NWS forecast.
Sunny conditions for holiday travel are expected for Wednesday and on Thanksgiving with high temperatures in the upper 50s and nightly temperatures in the lower 40s.
Richmond saw the most rainfall of west Contra Costa County cities since last week’s atmospheric river brought the city’s seven-day rainfall total to 5.45 inches along with a flash flood warning, with Vollmer Peak on San Pablo Ridge receiving the largest amount of rainfall, 7.9 inches.
Richmond’s public works department provides residents with comprehensive emergency and sandbag support during storms and flooding.
During last week’s storm, a number of high-trafficked streets experienced flooding such as portions of 23rd Street near Garvin and Rheem avenues and Macdonald Avenue near the Interstate 80 westbound overpass and 37th and 38th streets, according to the city.
For flooding or sewer back-ups, residents can contact Veolia Water at 510-412-2001, while general Richmond Public Works Department issues can be addressed by calling 510-620-5509 during business hours (8 a.m. to 4 p.m.). After hours, individuals should call 911 or the Richmond police non-emergency line at 510-233-1214.
The Department of Public Works did not return requests for updates Monday on damage due to last week’s flooding and which areas residents should avoid.
The city offers multiple self-fill sandbag stations located at 10 Harbour Way (city yard back gate), 5100 Hartnett Ave. (Bayview library parking lot), and the West County Detention Facility at 5555 Giant Highway. Seniors and disabled citizens can request free sandbag delivery, limited to 10 bags per address, by calling 510-620-5509.
During storms, public works employees actively maintain city infrastructure by filling potholes and cleaning clogged drains to minimize potential flooding and road damage. Residents are encouraged to use these resources to protect their properties and ensure safe, navigable streets during inclement weather.
Richmond storm safety tips
We compiled advice from experts on how to stay safe before, during and after storms. Be sure to sign up with Contra Costa County Emergency Services to receive alerts.
Sources: Contra Costa County, National Weather Service, Ready.gov, PG&E, Caltrans
How do I prepare for a severe storm?
- Protect your home from flooding by clearing storm drains, cleaning gutters and downspouts before the storm arrives.
- Sandbags can redivert the flow of water and minimize damage. See above for sandbag self-serve sites.
- Prepare an emergency supply “go bag” with nonperishable food, any necessary medication, and sufficient water — one gallon of water per person each day. Learn how to assemble a go bag.
How do I prepare for potential power outages?
- Prepare portable phone battery packs and flashlights. Outdoor power generators can be a good option, especially for those with electricity-powered medical devices, but follow manufacturer instructions carefully to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
- If a power outage occurs, call PG&E at 1-800-743-5000 to report the outage and unplug most electrical appliances, leaving one lamp on to notify you when power is restored. Look up estimated restoration times on PG&E’s outage map.
- Keep your fridge and freezer doors closed. If you experience power outage-related food spoilage, file a PG&E claim.
- Read more tips for preparing for power outages.
Where do I find out about storms?
- Check the National Weather Service’s Bay Area website and Twitter account for up-to-the-minute weather information.
How do I report storm damage?
- Residents and businesses can call 311 to report storm-related issues “such as a clogged drain, culvert, inlet, or creek; a fallen tree or major limb; a malfunctioning traffic signal; or flooding that enters a travel lane.”
- After hours, call 510-981-6620, to report clogged storm drains, flooding, lights or traffic signals and 510-981-6660 to report downed trees.
What if I’m driving during a storm?
- If you must drive, check current highway conditions before heading out.
- If a traffic light is out, treat the intersection as a four-way stop.
- Call 911 if you encounter downed power lines.
- Severe storms often cause flooding in intersections and roadways. If you encounter a flooded road while driving, the city wants you to “turn around, don’t drown,” as water can be deeper than it appears.
More Contra Costa County resources
Here is more information on emergency alerts and resources.
Here are more tips on how to prepare for flooding: https://contracosta.ca.gov/floodprep.
Follow the county on X at @CCCounty www.twitter.com/cccounty for more updates (you can see posts without a login).
