Storms and flooding

Emergency Preparedness for Storms and Flooding. Sandbags, radio, go bag, first aid.

Storms and flooding: local resources

Find sandbags, check creek levels, report storm impacts, and prepare your household for heavy rain and power outages.

Immediate danger? Call 911. Stay away from floodwater and downed power lines.

Current updates and forecasts

Check the latest official information before traveling or visiting a temporary service location.

Older notices appear in the storm update archive. Their forecasts, closures, and service availability apply to the dates listed.

Free sandbags for residents

The City provides sand and empty bags to help residents prepare for heavy rain. Bring a shovel to fill your bags.

Permanent stations: year-round locations

  • Burgess Park parking lot: Alma Street and Burgess Drive.
  • Menlo Park Fire Station No. 77: 1467 Chilco St.

Temporary station: confirm activation before visiting

Pope Street Island: 222 Laurel Ave. This additional location is used during heavy rain events and is not a year-round station.

Temporary station opening this week. Check the City's sandbag information and current City updates, or call 650-330-6740 during business hours to confirm the opening day and availability before visiting.

Learn how to fill, place, reuse, and dispose of sandbags.

Creek and channel water levels

Check each monitor's timestamp. Water-level readings provide information about conditions; follow official alerts and evacuation instructions when deciding what action to take.

Report flooding, damage, or outages

When reporting a problem, provide the location and a brief description. Include photographs only if you can take them safely.

Before a storm: know your risk and prepare

Check your property's flood exposure

Use the San Mateo County GIS hazard risk map to explore mapped hazards near your home or business. This planning tool does not show current storm conditions.

Prepare your household

  • Keep emergency supplies, including drinking water, nonperishable food, flashlights, batteries, and medications.
  • Plan how household members will communicate and where you will go if you need to evacuate.
  • Include mobility, medical equipment, language, and pet needs in your plan.
  • Ask neighbors whether they would like a check-in or other help. Sharing personal information is voluntary.
  • Charge phones and backup batteries, and plan for power outages.
  • Subscribe to the City's Weekly Digest for routine City news and preparedness information. Use SMC Alert for emergency notifications.

Protect your property

  • Secure outdoor furniture and other items that could blow away.
  • Clear leaves and debris from nearby storm drains only when safe, without entering traffic or floodwater. Put leaves in your green organics cart.
  • Place sandbags at low entry points before heavy rain begins.
  • Move valuables and important documents to a higher, dry location when safe.
  • Discuss long-term drainage, floodproofing and utility improvements with qualified professionals before making changes.

Learn about flood insurance and review flood preparedness guidance.

 

During a storm: stay safe

  • Monitor official weather alerts and follow evacuation instructions.
  • Avoid unnecessary travel and outdoor activity.
  • Never walk or drive into floodwater. Turn around and choose another route.
  • Stay away from downed power lines and anything touching them. Call 911.
  • Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or you are standing in water.

If you must drive

  • Check road conditions, tires, headlights and windshield wipers before leaving.
  • Use headlights in rain, slow down and leave extra following distance.
  • Obey road closures and give emergency vehicles room to pass.
  • Treat a dark traffic signal as a stop sign and proceed carefully when safe.
  • Keep emergency supplies in your vehicle, including water, a flashlight, a first aid kit and a blanket.

Prepare for and manage power outages

  • Keep phones and portable chargers charged.
  • Have flashlights, spare batteries and some cash available.
  • Learn how to open your garage door manually before an outage.
  • Keep enough fuel or battery charge in your vehicle for an evacuation.
  • Plan ahead for equipment or medications that depend on electricity.

Read the City's power outage preparedness guidance.

 

After a storm: assess damage safely

  • Wait for safe conditions before inspecting property or clearing debris.
  • Avoid standing water, unstable trees, damaged buildings, and downed utility lines.
  • Watch for slippery surfaces, broken glass, nails, and other debris.
  • Have a qualified professional check flood-damaged electrical equipment before use.
  • If you suspect a gas leak, leave the area and call 911 from a safe location, then PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.
  • Report damage and check on neighbors when it is safe to do so.

To help your neighborhood prepare, explore Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and other emergency preparedness training through the Menlo Park Fire Protection District.

 

Previous storm updates

Historical information only. The notices below describe past storms. Dates, forecasts, phone numbers, facility addresses, opening hours and temporary sandbag availability may have changed. Use the resources at the top of this page for current information.

2024-2025 storm update archive

Dec. 18, 2025

A series of storms will start Friday, Dec. 19 and continue through next week. From Saturday through Thursday, the National Weather Service forecast includes moderate to heavy rainfall. In addition, wind gusts of 25+ mph are forecasted starting Saturday at 10 p.m. to Sunday at 10 p.m.

Impacts include ponding on roadways, minor flooding and downed tree limbs.  If traveling for the upcoming holiday, plan to leave extra time as there may be traffic impacts. Also, do not attempt to drive through flood waters. Please find an alternate route. More information on driving during wet weather can be found at menlopark.gov/storms.

Nov. 12, 2025

The National weather service issued a wind advisory from 10 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 12 through 10 a.m. Thursday, Nov. 13. Community members can expect southwest winds of 15-25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph.
Storms and strong winds may cause ponding on roadways, downed trees or tree limbs and power outages. City staff will continue to monitor storm impacts and share additional details as they become available.
Stay informed about the local forecast at National Weather Service Bay Area: www.weather.gov/mtr/. Sign Up for SMC Alert, San Mateo County's primary alert and warning system at: menlopark.gov/smcalert
For blocked storm drains, sink holes, landslides, levee damage and fallen trees, call Public Works at 650-330-6780 weekdays from 7 a.m.–4 p.m. and at 650-330-6300 after-hours.For power outages, call PG&E 1-800-743-5000.
To check the levels of San Francisquito Creek and find additional storm resources, visit menlopark.gov/storms.


Nov. 4, 2025

The National Weather Service issued a wind advisory for an early seasonal storm that may include possible gusts of 25+ mph starting tonight at 10 p.m. through 4 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 5. High winds may cause downed power lines or power outages. If you experience a power outage, please call PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.
Action to take: Stay tuned for updated to the forecast. Also, learn about storm resources including preparation for power outages here: menlopark.gov/storms.


Feb. 10, 2025

The National Weather Service forecasts significant rain beginning Wednesday, Feb. 12, into Friday, with very heavy rain Thursday morning.

In addition, strong winds are forecast for Thursday – Friday. Gusts could be up to 30 mph.

Storms may cause ponding on roadways, downed trees or tree limbs, and power outages.

City staff will continue to monitor storm impacts and share additional details as they become available.

To check the levels of San Francisquito Creek and find additional storm resources, visit menlopark.gov/storms.

Feb. 3, 2025

The National Weather Service forecasts a second atmospheric river to arrive Monday bringing with it moderate rain into Tuesday followed by light rain Wednesday. A third, weaker, atmospheric river arrives Thursday into Friday. A Flood Watch is in effect from 4 p.m. Monday through 4 a.m. Wednesday.

In addition, gusty winds will develop today and persist through much of the week as the atmospheric rivers move through the region. Gusts will generally be between 25 to 35 mph.

Impacts could include ponding on roadways. Also, the combination of wind and moist soil will increase the risk of downed trees.

City staff will continue to monitor storm impacts and share additional details as they become available.

Jan. 31, 2025

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for San Mateo County starting at noon today, Jan.31 through 10 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 1. A second round of storms is forecast to begin on Sunday through early next week, bringing gusty winds.

Tips to prepare for the upcoming storms:

  • Use sandbags to avoid water coming into your home. Need sandbags? Visit the City's free sandbag stations.
  • Clean leaves and debris from storm drains.
  • Prepare for longer commute times.
  • Do not drive through flooded roadways.
  • Use headlights when driving in the rain.

Dec. 23, 2024 Update

The National Weather Service (NWS) forecasts high winds and rain arriving late Monday and a 20% chance for isolated thunderstorms on Tuesday. Wednesday is forecast to be dry. Then, four systems will move through the region between Thursday and Sunday with the highest rainfall totals expected in the North Bay with minor impacts expected elsewhere. City staff will be on standby throughout the week to respond to storm impacts.

Dec. 13, 2024 Update

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a wind advisory for Friday, Dec. 13 afternoon to 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 14. Sustained winds of 35 - 39 mph and wind gusts of 45 - 57 mph are expected. Possible impacts for our community include fallen trees and limbs as well as power outages. City staff will be on standby throughout the weekend to respond to storm impacts.

March 1, 2024 Update

Prepare for strong winds and rain 

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a wind advisory for Friday, March 1 at noon through Saturday, March 2 at 10 a.m. Residents can expect sustained winds of 35 - 39 mph and wind gusts of 45 - 57 mph. Possible impacts for our community include fallen trees and limbs as well as power outages. City staff will be on standby throughout the weekend to respond to storm impacts.

Feb. 16, 2024 Update

Update: High winds & rain return this weekend

Prepare for possible power outages and storm impacts
The National Weather Service (NWS) has identified two systems that will bring rain and high winds starting Saturday, Feb.17. NWS is predicting 1-3 inches of rainfall in parts of San Mateo County and wind gusts between 25 - 50 mph. A flood watch is in effect from 10 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 18 through 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 21. Residents should be prepared to see hazardous road conditions, power outages, downed trees, and minor to moderate flooding. City staff will be on standby throughout the weekend to respond to storm impacts.

Tips to Get Ready for Winter Storms

Feb. 5, 2024 Update

Remaining Power Outages and Resources
Per PG&E, yesterday's weather was the third-most damaging one-day storm in PG&E history. At least three counties, including Marin and Santa Clara, recorded wind gusts touching 90mph. Trees and other debris flew into equipment across Northern California. The Peninsula currently has some 36,300 addresses still out, down from the Sunday night peak of 78k+. Crews continue to assess and repair as safely as possible. PG&E aims to have all power restored by 6 p.m. tonight but given the extent of outages, it may take until Wednesday.

PG&E continues to make progress restoring power in Menlo Park. If your power is still out:

  • You can check the PG&E outage center map online or call PG&E at 1-800-743-5000.
  • The Menlo Park Library at 800 Alma Street and the Belle Haven Library at 413 Ivy Drive are open until 8 p.m. tonight. They will reopen on Tuesday, Feb. 6th from noon – 8 p.m.

Additional updates from Menlo Park

  • Traffic signals remain out in multiple places including on Marsh Road at 101 and Bayfront, Willow Road from Middlefield Road to Bay Road and Laurel and Ravenswood.
    • If you encounter a signal that is out, please treat it as a 4-way stop and obey the temporary signage.
  • Public works cleared 12 tree issues and repaired 5 fences on Feb. 5 and continue to clear debris today.
  • Rain gauges in the San Francisquito Creek (SFC) watershed registered between 0.94-1.8 inches over the last 24 hour period.
  • SFC flow peaked at 7:45 pm on Sunday – 820 cfs / 4.3 feet.
  • High winds started at noon on Feb. 5 and continued through midnight, with gusts between 20-30 mph.
  • For remaining issues with fallen trees and blocked storm drains, contact Public Works at 650-330-6780 (Monday – Friday, 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.). To report problems you see in the San Francisquito Creek, like trash and large trees/branches, please submit your concern online.

Visit menlopark.gov/storms for more information including contact information and resources.

Feb. 4, 2024 Update

High Winds: Power Outages

The high Wind Advisory issued by the National Weather Service is in effect through 10p.m. tonight, Sunday, Feb. 4. Winds could be up to 50 mph. A Flood Watch continues through 10 a.m. Monday, Feb.5.

Extreme Winds - Outages and Downed Trees
Currently, there are over 75,000 customers in San Mateo County and nearly 130,000 customers in Santa Clara County without power.

Per PG&E, the current storm intensified quickly and shifted the entire Bay Area into PG&E’s highest emergency-response category. The winds have created challenges countywide and region-wide. There are trees down in multiple locations, with more than a few roads blocked. PG&E advised that with the number of outages, it will likely be multiple days before all power is restored to customers. Menlo Park will provide updates about open facilities and resources as PG&E works to repair outages.

For power outages and gas leaks, call PG&E at 1-800-743-5000 and check their outage center map online.

If you are without power and seeking a warm, dry place to wait for power to return, the Menlo Park Library at 800 Alma Street and the Belle Haven Library at 413 Ivy Drive are open until 6 p.m. tonight. They will reopen on Monday, Feb. 5th from noon – 8 p.m.

Multiple Traffic Impacts
Multiple traffic impacts on Peninsula highways have been reported. Please consider staying home unless it is an emergency. Drive with extreme caution if you do need to go out. You can also monitor traffic impacts for the Bay Area and sign up for emergency alerts.

Traffic signals are out at Laurel & Ravenswood, Middlefield & Ravenswood, Middlefield & Ringwood, Sand Hill & Santa Cruz Oak Grove & Laurel and Willow Road from Gilbert to 101.

If you encounter a signal that is out, please treat it as a 4-way stop and obey the temporary signage.

Menlo Park Public Works is currently working to clear downed trees.

Feb. 2, 2024 Update

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Flood Watch from Saturday, Feb. 3 at 4 p.m. through Monday, Feb. 5 at 10 a.m. and a Wind Advisory on Sunday, Feb. 4 at 4 a.m. through 10 p.m. NWS is predicting over 1.5 - 4 inches of rainfall in parts of San Mateo County within a 24- to 36-hours period and strong wind gusts potentially reaching 40-70 mph. Residents should be prepared to see hazardous road conditions, power outages, downed trees, and minor to moderate flooding.

Tips to Get Ready for Winter Storms:

  • Pick up sandbags in case of possible flooding.
  • Prepare for possible power outages (for example, ensure flashlights are available).
  • Continue to Monitor Conditions. Sign-up for emergency alerts and check the National Weather Service for updates. The City will continue to monitor forecasts and conditions, and staff is ready to respond should conditions change.
  • Review tips for driving in the rain at menlopark.gov/storms.

Jan. 31, 2024 Update

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch from Wednesday, Jan. 31 at 4 a.m. through Friday, Feb. 2 at 4 a.m. and a Wind Advisory from Wednesday, Jan. 31 at 4 a.m. through Thursday, Feb. 1 at 4 a.m. Minor flooding of streams and roadways is expected along with the potential for downed trees and power outages. Another storm system is forecast to arrive Sunday, Feb. 4th.

Prepare Now : Residents impacted by water pooling in neighborhood streets or flooding last year, should consider preparing now. Sign-up for emergency alerts pick up sandbags, and prepare for the storms in advance.

Continue to Monitor Conditions:  The City will continue to monitor forecasts and conditions, and staff is ready to respond should conditions change.

In preparation for the storm, our teams are:

  • Clearing storm drains
  • Monitoring sandbag stations to ensure that residents have access to sand and bags
  • Monitoring rainfall forecasts and San Francisquito Creek and Atherton Channel water levels
  • Preparing to keep libraries open late in the event of power outages
  • Coordinating with neighboring cities, the San Francisquito Creek JPA, and partners to align preparations and response

In addition:

  • Pump stations are fueled and in working order
  • Emergency generators are fueled in case of power outages
  • Traffic control equipment is staged in areas that are prone to flooding

Jan. 29, 2024 Update

The National Weather Service is forecasting heavy rain impacts in our area from Wednesday, Jan. 31 through Thursday, Feb. 1. The storm is expected to bring periods of heavy rain and gusty winds, and our area is under a flood watch. The San Francisquito Creek and Atherton Channel could also near capacity this week. The City of Menlo Park is closely monitoring the weather forecast and is working with partner agencies.

Menlo Park has three sandbag stations at the following locations:

Burgess Park parking lot at Alma Street and Burgess Drive
Fire Station 77 at 1467 Chilco St.
Temporary pop-up at Pope St. Island: 222 Laurel Ave.
Visit the sandbags web page for instructions on how to fill them. Please remember to bring a shovel.

There are also several ways you can protect your property from flood damage before the flood occurs.

If there is an imminent flood threat, you can take these emergency measures:

Place sandbags or plastic sheeting in front of doorways and other low entry points
Elevate furniture above flood protection levels
Move valuables to a higher level
Create floodway openings in non-habitable areas such as garage doors
Seal off sewer lines to the dwelling to prevent backflow of sewer waters

Jan. 26, 2024 Update

The National Weather Service is forecasting heavy rain impacts in our area from Wednesday, Jan. 31 through Thursday, Feb. 1. Periods of heavy rain and gusty winds are possible. The San Francisquito Creek and Atherton Channel could also near capacity next week. The City of Menlo Park is closely monitoring the weather forecast and is working with partner agencies.

Free Sandbags Available
The City of Menlo Park offers free sandbags to help residents prepare for heavy rainfall. Sandbags can be used to redirect and divert water away from your home or business.

Residents can pick up sand and empty bags at the following locations. Please remember to bring a shovel.

Burgess Park parking lot: Alma Street and Burgess Drive

Menlo Park Fire Station No. 77: 1467 Chilco St.

Temporary pop-up at Pope St. island: 222 Laurel Ave.

Important Contacts

Emergency calls: 911

Police non-emergency: 650-330-6300 (including after hours)

Public Works: Fallen trees, sandbags, streets, mudslides, storm drains

650-330-6780 (Monday–Friday, 7 a.m.–4 p.m.)

You can also report problems you see in the San Francisquito Creek, like trash and large trees/branches online.

Sign up for SMC Alert
SMC Alert is an alert notification system used to immediately contact you during urgent or emergency situations, and is available in all cities and towns in San Mateo County.  



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