Winter weather safety in Menlo Park: How to stay prepared

Published on January 29, 2024

Heavy rain and gusty winds are forecasted in Menlo Park this season. Safety is our community’s top priority and we want to help you best prepare for potential incoming storms and emergencies.

We've previously shared City communication resources and weather forecast resources, but we also have material resources to help protect your home and property. Residents can pick up sand and empty bags to prepare for wet weather as of Friday, Dec. 1. Sandbags can be used to redirect and divert water away from your home or business.

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

Visit the storms and flooding web page for more information.