With more rain ahead, Redding officials explain flooding, urge caution

In a press release today, Redding officials said that serious flooding this weekend occurred because the intensity and volume of rainfall overwhelmed the city’s stormwater system. “In some parts of the city,” the press release said, “nearly two inches of rain fell in just over an hour—an event considered to occur only once in a 50-year period.”

Today, areas of State Route 273 at South Bonneyview, Buenaventura Boulevard and Wyndham Drive remain closed.

Public Works Director Michael Webb said despite the city’s ongoing efforts to clean and maintain infrastructure including earthen ditches, channels and storm drains, the high volume of water moving so quickly through the system caused debris accumulation that clogged city stormwater systems. 

Public works, along with fire, police and Redding Electric Utility personnel worked throughout the day and night Sunday responding to power outages and flooding incidents, the city said. Multiple individuals required rescue including one adult male who perished, Redding Police Chief Brian Barner said, after floodwaters overtook his vehicle. 

“This is a reminder that floodwaters can be wildly unpredictable and have devastating impacts,” Barner added. 

The city’s press release today said a number of motorists continued to enter flooded streets or drive around barricades despite instructions from first responders yesterday, complicating their efforts. With more rain expected over the week, Fire Chief Jerrod Vanlandinham urged the public to avoid roadways during flooding, saying driving in dangerous conditions isn’t worth the risk.

“The water may not look deep, but it can be very deceiving,” Vanlandingham explained, “ Floodwaters can move swiftly, and it can be very difficult to see what is under a roadway covered in water. Staying out is the best way to stay safe and alive. Turn around — don’t drown.”

In preparation for more storms ahead, city crews are working to clean debris and further inspect storm drain infrastructure, officials said. They’re also monitoring soil conditions with the awareness that the next storm system may have stronger winds which could down trees. Travis Menne, Director of Community Services encouraged residents to report downed trees or powerlines to the city when they occur.

Officials are also asking the public to avoid walking or driving through flooded areas and respect road closures and barricades. With more storms ahead, residents are urged to prepare emergency supplies including flashlights, food, water and medications and to sign up for cell phone notifications via AlertShasta.

An emergency shelter is being set up by the Red Cross Center at Pilgrim Congregational Church on Foothill Boulevard and will remain open for the next few days in preparation for upcoming storms.

Shasta County Sheriff Michael Johnson declared a state of emergency today which will help facilitate funding reimbursements for flood-related damage. Like other officials, he urged the public to sign up for public safety alerts and remain vigilant on roadways especially those close to moving water.

Resources:

• If you’re in flood water and at risk, call 911.
• To report a downed power line, call 911.
• Report other power issues here.
• See where power outages are occuring here.
• Report flooding or drainage issues, 24-hours a day: 530-224-6068.
• Report a downed tree: 530-224-6100.
• Sign up for Shasta public safety alerts, and find your zone, here.
• Find updates from the City of Redding on Facebook here.
• More Shasta resources can be found here.

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