ELK GROVE, CA (MPG) - While the chances of catastrophic flooding in Elk Grove are not as high as other places in the state and the country, heavy downpours and our proximity to local rivers and waterways can add a layer of risk during the rainy season.

The city joins the California Department of Water Resources in recognizing Flood Preparedness Week Oct. 18 to 25.

In preparation for storm season, the Public Works Department is actively inspecting, clearing and monitoring over 14,000 drainage inlets.

The city’s storm response team is in communication with other regional agencies, conducting training and fine-tuning plans to activate our emergency operations center, if needed.

Be prepared by using the early fall months to assess home flood risk, purchase sandbag supplies from local home improvement centers to fortify flood-prone areas of your property and prepare and practice response plans. Great resources can be found at Ready.gov.

Flooding and other disasters can happen, but the city is working hard to be ready to respond.

Visit elkgrove gov/storm for storm-related information including sandbag distribution. During storm season, if you see a clogged storm drain or storm water drainage problem, report it through our Public Works Hotline at 916-687-3005.