Storm cleanup underway across the Coachella Valley

Monday’s rain storm drenched the Coachella Valley. It flooded La Quinta roads, businesses, cars and homes. The sun dried up the a lot of the floodwater Tuesday, but left behind a big mess in cities such as La Quinta.

Crews spent the day spraying mud and dirt off the city sidewalks. Others were extracting water from parking lots and carpets in homes and businesses. There was a lot of water damage at an apartment complex on Calle Tampico where furniture and carpets couldn’t be salvaged and had to be gutted.

City Public Works Director Tim Jonasson said Old Town La Quinta is the lowest point in the city. The storm drain systems there are undersized and overtaxed.

“The drainage systems in La Quinta are as good as any out here, they’re based on retention basins. The piping in there can only transfer the water so fast,” said Jonasson.

With a lot of water coming all at once, the drains back up and neighbors and business owners affected by the storm said something needs to be done.

“We’re obviously not prepared for this,” said Maria Montes, of La Quinta. “This was only one rain, just one day. Imagine having it rain two times. It’s horrible.”

“They need to clean out the drains. When I go walking there’s stuff inside, the sewers are full of leaves, cans and bottles.”

Jonasson said the city is looking at ways to help prevent major flooding in the area in the future, but the alternatives so far are very expensive.

“We’re addressing as many of the areas and coming up with improvements wherever we can to keep as many roads open in bigger events as possible,” said Jonasson.

As for road closures, Eisenhower Drive and Ave 50 in La Quinta are expected to reopen Tuesday night.

John Adams Elementary School in La Quinta has its power back on and will be open Wednesday morning.