SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Utility crews were hard at work Wednesday afternoon clearing trees and clearing drains in Sacramento with storm weather in the forecast. Local agencies said the big concerns with a storm coming in on Wednesday is the potential for downed trees and localized flooding.
Clouds darkened the sky in the day, but the storm is expected to bring heavy rain and strong winds overnight. The winds could cause trees or limbs to come down that may fall onto power lines and cause possible power outages.
"We're in a good position for this storm because we have been preparing all year long. We have extra crews on hand," said Carlos Eliason, with the Department of Utilities for the City of Sacramento.
Last year's storms in January brought down trees across Sacramento.
Although this storm isn't expected to be as strong, crews are working ahead to keep the trees from becoming a problem.
City of Sacramento crews also cleared drains as the storm could cause localized flooding if they get backed up.
The City and Sacramento County said residents can also help make sure drains are free of debris by keeping an eye on the ones near their home.
"Before the rain falls, get out in front of your property, clear the gutters and make sure there's only rain down the drain," said Matt Robinson, a Sacramento County spokesperson.
Sacramento County residents filled up sandbags ahead of the storm.
Last year, floodwaters flowed through parts of Sacramento County, including the Wilton area and covering part of Highway 99. Three people were found dead after the New Year's Eve storms.
While officials said the rivers aren't expected to be a problem this storm, Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District crews are ready to respond if swift water rescues are needed this season.
They are also urging residents to heed an important warning.
"If you do encounter standing water, don't drive through it. We say, 'turn around, don't drown,' because we can't tell you how many times we've had vehicles that go through standing water and they get stuck and need us to rescue them," said Parker Wilbourn, spokesperson for Sacramento Metropolitan Fire.
Wilbourn also said if you live in a flood prone area, it's important to have an evacuation plan and know two ways to get out of your neighborhood.
If you encounter any flooding, call 311.
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