Storm Alert & Resources
Do not call 9-1-1 unless it is an emergency.
Stay Informed
Get timely notifications from the City about emergency conditions such as closures, flooding, and other storm impacts via AlertSCC at AlertSCC.org
Sign up for alerts from the Palo Alto Police Department via Nixle by texting your Zip Code to 888777.
The City will be sharing real-time storm and flood conditions and other related information on Twitter, Nextdoor and Facebook. Visit www.paloalto.gov/connect to follow us.
Use #PaloAltoStorm to post storm-related photos and/or videos
Resources
Community Resource Center: A Community Resource Center at Rinconada Library will be open at 2 p.m. on January 4 overnight through Thursday, January 5 until 8 p.m. if residents need a warm and dry location to relocate and gather. Visit to charge devices, use a laptop, find a hotel, and determine next steps.
Report Damage: If you have flood damage to your home, please email the City at stormdamage@paloalto.gov or visit www.paloalto.gov/ReportFloodDamage.
Monitor Creek Water Levels: To monitor creek water levels and learn about other resources, visit our website at www.paloalto.gov/creekmonitor.
Prepare Now: Be storm ready by visiting our website at www.paloalto.gov/Storms. Park your car in downtown City lots or garages. Time limitations waived through the storm event. Clear debris from storm drain inlets. Use sandbags in areas prone to flooding. Sandbag stations are available at these City locations:
- Rinconada Tennis Courts
- Mitchell Park
- Palo Alto Airport
- Chaucer Street and Palo Alto Avenue
During the Storm
Turn off your home's electrical power and gas if water floods your home high enough that it might reach electrical outlets or gas-powered appliances. Immediately turn off the electrical power to your home by flipping all circuit breakers, and immediately turn off the gas to your home.
Evacuate Immediately if Told to Do So
If directed by emergency personnel, evacuate immediately. The City will make notifications using the mass notification system and by social media. Information will include evacuations, routes, and evacuation center locations.
Help Your Neighbors
Please be a good neighbor and offer your assistance to your neighbors if you're able.
Be Safe Around Flood Waters
If driving, please drive slowly and extremely cautiously. Do not remove or go around road barriers, cones, or signs stating flooded road conditions or closed roads.
Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters.
Stay off bridges over fast-moving water, and stay away from creek banks.
Do not walk, swim, or drive through flood waters.
Stay off bridges over fast-moving water, and stay away from creek banks.
Important Phone Numbers
Report Issues:
- For blocked storm drains, sink holes, landslides, levee damage, and fallen trees, call Palo Alto Public Works at (650) 496-6974 on weekdays from 7 a.m. - 4 p.m. and (650) 329-2413 after hours.
- For gas leaks and sewer spills, call Palo Alto Utilities Water, Gas, Wastewater Operations at (650) 329-2579.
- For power outages and electrical problems, call Palo Alto Utilities Electric Operations at (650) 496-6914.
Do Not Call 9-1-1 unless it's an emergency.