Engineer Jerry Lakeman says the Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District is ready for rain,
“At this point in the season, we try and have a reserve capacity for 3.25 inches.”
That may not seem like a large safety net for flood control in Fresno and Clovis, but that number considers if it all fell at once. Historically, storm systems with such heavy rain totals pass over the span of a few days.
Water first collects in storm drains along the street, leading to one of 151 different local ponding basins.
Many basins are connected by pipe and pump, so storm water can then be moved to larger holding places, or out of the city via canals, to make room for more rain.
Stormwwater that falls outside the city is stopped from rushing in at places like Dry Creek Reservoir.
Dry Creek Reservoir has never filled more than a third of the way up.
Water levels at large mountain reservoirs are also low in anticipation of the wintertime rain and snow.
Report flooding, pot holes and other road hazards.Fresno: (559) 262-4240 or (800) 742-1011 during normal business hours. For after hour or holiday emergencies, call the Fresno County Sheriff's Department at (559) 488-3111.
Madera Public Works Department: (559) 661-5466
Visalia Public Works Department: (559) 713-4428
After hours emergencies: (559) 738-2961
Hanford Public Works Department: (559) 585-2550
Merced Public Works Department: (559) 385-6800
