Caltrans Begins Storm Preparation Work as El Nino Approaches Central Valley & Sierra Nevada

October 19th - 23rd is California's Flood Prevention Week

Stockton - The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) is preparing for the onset of El Nino this season by clearing and inspecting highway drainage culverts, inlets, retention basins, and pump houses to combat annual flooding events.

With El Nino fast approaching and unprecedented rainfall and atmospheric rivers expected to impact California's Central Valley and Sierra Nevada, work has begun to safeguard out state highway infrastructure.

Before each incoming storm cycle, Caltrans closely monitors weather reports with information provided by the US National Weather Service (NWS) to gauge the incoming storm frequency and strength. Equipped with accurate NWS storm data Caltrans can effectively assess the needed storm preparedness efforts, staffing, and equipment. Caltrans maintenance crews are given specific locations to monitor for flooding, along with clearing culverts, roadside drainage inlets, inspecting bridges for debris and placing sandbags in areas prone to flooding.

Additionally, during atmospheric river events Caltrans maintenance crews closely monitor river canyon highway corridors for any obvious signs of rock fall or potential roadway washout locations. Our Caltrans maintenance crew members are also on standby 24/7 to coordinate with the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services for any weather-related emergency situations that may impact the traveling public.

Caltrans reminds motorists to #KnowBeforeYouGo with quickmap.dot.ca.gov for real-time highway conditions prior to travel. For your safety and other motorists, please #BeWorkZoneAlert and #MoveOver for highway workers and equipment.