Cathedral City neighborhood impacted by strong winds, sand accumulation
CATHEDRAL CITY, Calif. (KESQ) – Strong winds are known to have a great impact on the Valley, especially with blowing sand. While it can be a driving hazard and create a dust haze, it also creates sand drifts.
Residents of the Verano Neighborhood in Cathedral City are dealing with similar aftermath of recent strong winds that have led to significant sand accumulation along the street. Residents report streets are buried, vehicles are damages and their health is at risk.
"We have to park the car around the street, because if you live here the sand is just going to hit the glass, the mirrors," Cesar Hernandez, a resident, said. "When you're trying to get out of the car, all the sand gets in your face...Nobody’s taking accountability for it.”
Not only is there air quality when during high-wind days, but for these residents, they say the sand in the street adds additional airborne dust and allergens that infiltrate their homes.
"[The sand] starts damaging the people," Rafael Oscal, a resident, said. "People are getting sick right now."
Hernandez and Oscal said the sand wall started three to four weeks ago, and with the recent winds, it has grown significantly. Keeping cars from being able to drive or park along the street. Additionally, the sand is growing past the street and onto their sidewalks.
Residents said they've tried to reach out to Cathedral City and the neighborhood home owners association, but neither group has helped the cause.
"I've called the city, Cathedral City, and they said it's the associations responsibility," Hernandez said. "I call the association, they say the streets are part of the city, and yet it's still the same. And it does affect us because it keeps mounting and mounting."
Not only are fences broken, but sidewalks in front of homes are filled with sand. Residents are unable to park their cars in front of homes, but also cannot walk easily outside physically with sand coverage and poor air quality.
"Nobody has shown up to see it, exactly what it is," Oscal said. "Not even the city. Not even the HOA."
Residents reported to News Channel 3 the Verano Neighborhood HOA sent a March/April community update letter on the situation recently. It confirmed the streets were turned over to Cathedral City and the HOA is responsible for blow sand.
However, the HOA reports "the sand drifts and collapsed fence will remain as is until September." This is due to ongoing weather and "burrowing owl mating season" which is hindering construction in the sand field.
News Channel 3 is working to confirm these efforts and claims with Cathedral City officials.
Until they see change, the local community reports it remains distressed and unable to navigate their streets safely. Oscal said may residents are considering moving out of the neighborhood if the livability conditions do not change.
"It's so sad to see my neighborhood this way," Oscal said. "Especially on this side over here."
Stay with News Channel 3 for more on the sand impacts and to hear from residents.
