Severe storms

You can help prevent flooding and keep you and your community safe by taking steps before, during and after a storm.

Before a storm

• Gather supplies and make sure you have what you need to stay indoors.
• Remove debris and sweep up any leaves from sidewalks and storm drains to keep them from getting clogged.
  • Join San Francisco’s Adopt a Drain and Rain Guardians programs to “adopt” one of the 25,000 storm drains (or catch basins) or rain gardens in our beautiful City and pledge to keep it free of debris and help minimize risk of flooding.
• If you live or work in an area that floods, Public Works will provide San Francisco residents and businesses up to ten free sandbags leading up to and during severe rainstorms.
  • Sandbags can be retrieved at the Public Works operations yard, Marin Street/Kansas Street gate. Bring proof of address. Visit Public Works for hours and more information.
  • Sandbags also are sold at many local hardware and home improvement stores.
• If you live in a flood-prone area, elevate belongings stored in garages or basements. Learn about flood protection resources and financial assistance at sfpuc.org/rainreadysf.
• Standard homeowners’ insurance does not cover flood damage. Learn about coverage through the National Flood Insurance Program.
• When high winds are in the forecast, prevent damage to your property by trimming loose branches and parking away from trees. Close and latch any operable windows. Remove all loose or unsecured objects from balconies, roofs or other outside areas.

Storm and Flood Hazards Map

When a winter storm hits, stay updated on local conditions with our Storm and Flood Hazard Map.

This interactive map shows local flood risk zones identified by FEMA and the City, PG&E outage areas, sandbag pickup locations, and National Weather Service hazard products.

To explore additional resources, click the drop-down menu in the top-right corner of the map and select “layers” (the icon that looks like a stack of papers).

Visit our Storm and Flood Hazard Map

During a storm

• Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rains and winds. If you have to be out, stay away from flooded areas and downed power lines, whether in a car or on foot. Do not drive through water more than 6 inches deep.
• Avoid flood-prone areas, like lower elevation streets, drainage channels, and underpasses where water can rise quickly.
• During high winds, falling trees and broken branches can become dangerous objects. Avoid walking near trees, especially in parks. Report downed limbs to 311.

• Use caution during power outages:
  • Unplug electronics and turn off appliances to prevent damage from power surges.
  • Leave one light on to signal when power is restored.
  • Use flashlights instead of candles to prevent fires. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
• Call, text or visit neighbors. Older adults, especially those who live alone, and those with disabilities or medical conditions are most at risk during emergencies and disasters.
• Report non-life-threatening storm-related issues such as clogged catch basins, residential or street flooding, sewer backups, or wastewater odors to 311 online at sf311.org, on the 311 mobile app for Android and iPhone, or by calling 3-1-1.
• Call 9-1-1 for life-threatening emergencies.

After a storm

• Check your home or business for flood damage and contact your insurance provider or landlord.
• If flooding entered your property through plumbing or the public right-of-way, you may qualify for a Floodwater Grant of up to $100,000 for flood protection projects for eligible residential and commercial property owners.
• If you smell gas or suspect a gas leak, leave immediately and call 9-1-1. Then call PG&E at (800) 743-5000.
• Safely handle food after power outages
  • Discard any perishable food that has been above 40°F for more than 4 hours.
  • If your freezer remained full and unopened, food may last 48 to 72 hours—when in doubt, throw it out.
• Continue reporting clogged catch basins, street flooding, sewer backups or wastewater odors to 311 online at sf311.org, on the 311 mobile app for Android and iPhone, or by calling 3-1-1.
• Call, text or visit neighbors. Older adults, especially those who live alone, and those with disabilities or medical conditions are most at risk during emergencies and disasters. 

Learn more

• Learn how to prepare and stay safe during flooding.
• Find out about how disasters and emergencies can affect San Francisco.
• Review the steps to get prepared for any emergency.

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