Storm and Flood Protection & Preparation

Many of our community’s streets, homes, and businesses are adjacent to San Francisquito Creek and the San Francisco Bay, and a number of these areas are subject to potentially major flood events. Floods can cause significant property damage, force evacuation of residents, and can be life-threatening. Being prepared for a flood is your best defense and the right way to make sure you and your family are safe. It doesn’t take long to put a few key disaster preparation tips into place – and after you do, you’ll be better prepared to handle a flood, fire, or earthquake, and protect your family and your property. On this page you will find information to help you learn about whether you are in a flood zone, how to protect yourself and your family during emergency storm and flood events, how to get information during active events, and how to insure your property against damage. 

Stay Informed: Ensure that you are signed up for official emergency alerts from San Mateo County Emergency Management - SMC Alert and following City of East Palo Alto social media pages.

Prepare Yourself and Your Family: Visit ready.gov to learn more about creating a disaster preparation checklist.

The City of East Palo Alto has worked with neighboring jurisdictions on a comprehensive Hazard Mitigation Plan: 2021 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan - Vol I & Vol II

Public Sandbagging Station

The City is providing a public sandbagging station to help residents and businesses prepare for potential flooding during the rainy season. Sandbags will be available outside the Public Works Corporation Yard, located at 150 Tara Road, across from Bay Road.  The station will be open to residents and local businesses beginning Wednesday, October 15, 2025 and will remain accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. City staff will monitor and restock the station every weekday morning (Monday–Friday) to ensure materials are available. For more information or to volunteer, please contact the City of East Palo Alto Public Works Department at (650) 853-3100 and ask for the Maintenance Division

Please bring your own gloves and be prepared to fill your own sandbags:

Limit: 10 sandbags per household or business.

Filling instructions: Fill sandbags half to two-thirds full. Tie at the top so the bag will lay flat when placed. A properly filled sandbag should weigh between 35–40 lbs.

Supplies provided: Sand, empty bags, and shovels (while supplies last).

Sandbag Placement Instructions