Preparing for El Nio starts at home

So far, the bulk of El Nio storms have targeted the northern and central parts of California. But history shows us the jet stream steering these systems typically drops south during late winter and early spring, bringing a higher probability of rain to Southern California.

Rain for Southern California is a good thing, but too much too fast can cause problems in the Coachella Valley. When it rains hard, our washes can fill up fast. The results can be dangerous with boulders tossed and cars and trucks stuck in mud.

Bob Keeran with the Coachella Valley Water District said workers have already cleared its catch basins and wash areas in preparation for any heavier-than-normal precipitation and flood waters.

“So they can be safely diverted around life and property protecting them, Keeran said. “And the water can properly go off to the Salton Sea as things were designed to,” Keeran added.

So what can homeowners do to protect their property from floods?

Watch News Channel 3 Meteorologist Jerry Steffen’s special report on Tuesday at 5 p.m. for what you need to know about winter storms, which could pose many hazards around the home.