SERVPRO® of Palo Alto provides storm and flood restoration services for homeowners and businesses when severe weather strikes. When disaster hits close to home, reach out to the team that is tried and proven for damage disaster cleanup and restoration services in the Bay area.
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California flood facts
Concern over water management in California shifts between dealing with too little water and managing too much water. The swing from drought to deluge and then back to drought can be challenging for public entities, businesses, and private citizens. Drought and flooding have a devastating impact and present significant challenges.
The size of the state, an aging public works system, numerous agencies involved in the endeavor, and the high risk of flooding make flood management very complicated and a financial drain of public and private resources. These basic facts about flooding in California and the Bay area will help residents understand and prepare for flooding in their neighborhoods and community.
Fact: Flood risk is statewide
Severe flooding has been part of California’s history from its earliest days. The “Great Flood” of 1862 is renowned for its destructive impact on homes and businesses and the loss of life. It is estimated that approximately 4,000 people, or 1% of the state’s entire population, perished in the flood event.
Flooding is still a risk hazard in California. Flood management efforts have been extensive in modern times, but flooding is still a problem. As recently as 2017, a state of emergency was declared in 52 of California’s 58 counties. The Governor’s response was prompted by widespread damage from winter storms and flooding.
California is a beautiful state because of its magnificent mountains, verdant valleys, and stunning coastline. These geological features and the expanse of the state make the region subject to some degree of flooding. This conclusion is borne out by the reality that since the early 1990s, every one of the 58 counties in California has been declared at least one time to be a federal flood disaster area.
Research and analysis of the widespread risk hazards of flooding reveal the vulnerability of the state to flood damage. One in five Californians (7.3 million), $575 billion in buildings and homes, and $7.5 billion in crops are located in areas with a 1 in 500 chance of experiencing a flood damage event in any given year.
What homeowners and businesses can do to address flood risks?
Government officials and policymakers tasked with risk analysis and flood management highlight recent dramatic fluctuations in the climate: “Recent years have shown how variable California’s weather and hydrology can be. The four‑year stretch of 2012 through 2015 was the driest since statewide record‑keeping began in 1896. Just a year later, 2017 is on track to be among one of the wettest years on record, with precipitation in the northern part of the state registering more than 200 percent of normal at the end of February.”
By embracing a strategy that recognizes the risk of both drought and flooding, the homeowner and business owner can always be prepared. A state of constant readiness brings peace of mind during calm weather, as well as confidence amid severe drought or flooding.
Start by making an emergency readiness plan for the drought and the deluge. The plan should include an evacuation plan, a meet-up strategy, long-range walkie-talkies in case phones are down, and a list of important phone numbers for basic services and contact persons. Other essentials include a well-stocked first aid kit, LED flashlights, batteries, two weather band radios, toiletries, hygiene supplies, water, imperishable food, essential medicines, and rain gear. This list is just a start. Contact the local Red Cross for more information about disaster preparedness.
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In anticipation of storm damage or flood damage, prequalify a reputable, locally owned property damage cleanup and restoration company before disaster strikes. Drought brings with it both the threat of wildfire and the risk of landslides and flooding when the skies finally open up. SERVPRO of Palo Alto is locally owned. The team of fire, smoke, water, and flood damage restoration specialists is available 24/7, 365 days a year, including holidays. One call has a crew of IICRC-certified professionals arriving on the scene in about an hour. They bring the necessary equipment, state-of-the-art technology, advanced cleaning techniques, and powerful EPA-approved disinfecting, sanitizing, and deodorizing products to make the home or business clean, safe, and healthy for humans and pets.
To learn more about Sunnyvale, CA, flood restoration services, email office@servpropaloalto.com. SERVPRO of Palo Alto can also be reached by phone at (650) 800-3448.
