Be Storm Ready and Report Localized Flooding 

It’s shaping up to be a rainy week in Rancho Cordova and throughout the region. Here are a few steps to take to ensure that you are storm ready.

• Check storm drains near your property. Leaves can clog storm drains and lead to localized flooding. Sweep away leaves that are in your gutter or on top of a storm drain before rainfall. If you notice a storm drain that is full to the brim with debris, call the city to have it cleaned.

• Learn how to turn off water, gas, and electricity connections to your home in the event that your home is flooded. Contact your local utility companies if you need help.

• To report flooding, clogged storm drains, fallen trees in the roadway, traffic signal outages, or other non-life-threatening emergencies during a storm, call 916.851.8700. Service is available during regular business hours and after-hours.

• Keep pets indoors, and minimize travel during periods of high winds and heavy rain. Remember that if you come across traffic signal lights that have gone out, remember that intersection becomes a four-way stop.

• Establish a communication plan with family or neighbors for emergencies. Your family may not be together during an emergency so think about how you will communicate and where you will meet. Charge your phone and other portable electronics before the storm arrives. 

Updates from the County of Sacramento

• Be aware of park closures. As of January 4, all Sacramento County Regional Parks will be closed including the American River Parkway in Rancho Cordova. The closure is expected to last through Thursday, January 5, with the potential to extend into Friday, January 6, depending on weather and park conditions. Bicycle commuters are urged to find alternative routes. Learn more.

What to Do if Your Power Goes Out

• Check to see if the lights are out in neighboring homes. If they are, you're most likely part of a larger power outage.

• To view current outages and restoration times, or to report an outage, call SMUD's 24-hour outage line at 1.888.456.SMUD (7683), or visit their Outage Map at smud.org/en/Customer-Support/Outage-Status. For the latest updates, you can also follow SMUD on Twitter at @SMUDUpdates.

• If you see downed power lines or hear crackling wires—stay away! Report downed power lines by calling 911 first and then SMUD at 1.888.456.SMUD (7683). Keep others away, and avoid contact with anything that may be touching fallen wires.

• While you’re waiting for electricity to be restored, turn off all electric appliances and switches, except the porch light or any other light that SMUD crews can see from the street when the power is back on. Having only one light on lowers the initial demand for electricity and makes it easier for SMUD crews to restore service.

If you have PG&E for electric service, you can contact PG&E’s 24-Hour Call Center Line at 800.743.5000.

For more information, visit CityofRanchoCordova.org/Storm.