March 16 storm update

Published on March 16, 2023

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Get the latest updates at menlopark.gov/stormupdate

Remaining power outages

PG&E reports that they are down to less than 1,500 Menlo Park customers without power as of this afternoon and that they are prioritizing schools and critical infrastructure as they work to restore power. PG&E states that some electrical circuits have suffered tremendous damage and require extensive repairs that have taken longer than expected. Throughout San Mateo County, they say they are down to less than 10,000 customers without power (down from a peak of 67,000 customers) and that they have 81 crews dispatched throughout the county today. A power outage in the west part of the city is affecting a stormwater pump station and as we prepare for the possibility of additional rain later this weekend and into next week, we are monitoring the system and plan to deploy a generator for backup power if needed.

PG&E Safety Net program

Residential customers may qualify for PG&E's Safety Net program which offers payments to residential customers who are without power for more than 48 hours due to a severe events, like storms (as determined by PG&E). The Safety Net program, pays $25 to $100 automatically 60 to 120 days after the outage. The amount may depend on the outage length.

Menlo Park one-night hotel stay reimbursement policy for PG&E power outages

The City of Menlo Park has updated its policy for one-night hotel stay reimbursements related to extended PG&E power outages for this outage event. Please review the policy changes. Qualifying reimbursement requests can be submitted online via the hotel reimbursement request form by 5 p.m., Friday, March 31, 2023. 

For extended outages, learn about PG&E's discounts on hotels (PDF).

Storm cleanup

City crews have received a dozen new calls in the last 24 hours (nearly 90 calls for this entire storm event) with most being related to trees. They continue to work on cleanup efforts throughout the city to ensure streets remain open. The Nealon Park parking lot is open and accessible despite several large eucalyptus trees coming down during the storm and damaging fencing and blocking entry to the lot and Little House at one point. 

Street sweeping

Ahead of rains this weekend and next week, street sweeping will be important as we want to clear additional debris to allow water to flow freely. All residents are encouraged to move vehicles off the street and away from the curb ahead on your street sweeping day this week to allow street sweepers to remove as much debris (leaves, small branches, etc.) as possible over the next week.

Check your street sweeping day

Street closures and signal outages

The City is tracking a few remaining street closures and signal outages (view the Zonehaven map). Please continue to exercise caution when approaching any intersection with flashing signals or signals that are out, and treat these as an all-way stop. 

Menlo Park libraries open for those who need to recharge 

Dozens of residents have taken advantage of Menlo Park's libraries during the latest storm and outage events.

For those without power or needing a place to recharge, Menlo Park libraries will remain open until 8 p.m., Thursday, March 16, and reopen again at 10 a.m., Friday, March 17. These facilities are climate-controlled and offer seating, reading materials, laptop computers, places to charge mobile devices, and public access internet and Wi-Fi. Visit menlopark.gov/library or call 650-330-2520.

Avoid unstable creek banks; soil can collapse unexpectedly

Saturated soils along the banks of San Francisquito Creek along Woodland Avenue continue to make creek banks unstable and hazardous. Additional areas along the entire length of the creek banks may pose hazards, so please observe the creek from a safe distance and monitor creek levels online at menlopark.gov/creeklevels.

Keep informed of changing conditions

Report issues promptly

Please do not call 9-1-1 unless there is an imminent threat to life or other serious emergency.
For general questions consider texting the city at 650-679-7022.

  

March 15 update

March 15 update

Late yesterday the winds finally calmed and crews were able to begin to catch up on the nearly 70 storm-related calls, mostly due to downed trees and tree branches. At least 30 separate trees came down across the city causing multiple street closures and power outages. Public Works crews worked aggressively to reopen streets and clear debris, but the overall storm cleanup will take days. Storm damage can be widely seen across the city. The fence at the ball park at Nealon Park was damaged and the dog park there will remain closed until repairs can be made. 

Please check the latest street closure and traffic signal outages using the Zonehaven map. Ongoing power outages may continue to cause periodic traffic signal outages. Please drive carefully and treat any signal that is flashing or out as a stop sign. City crews have placed temporary stops signs at intersections where possible.

Extended power outages

PG&E continues to work to restore power and this morning several areas of the Belle Haven and Willows neighborhoods came back online. The City of Menlo Park is closely monitoring large sections of remaining outages across the rest of the city. City staff have been in contact with multiple representatives at PG&E and continue to press them for updates and restoration timelines. We know how frustrating it is to be without the information and we all want to see power restored as safely and and quickly as possible.

PG&E Safety Net program

Residential customers may qualify for PG&E's Safety Net program which offers:

  • Payments to residential customers who are without power for more than 48 hours due to a severe events, like storms (as determined by PG&E).

  • The Safety Net program, pays $25 to $100 automatically 60 to 120 days after the outage. The amount may depend on the outage length.

Menlo Park one-night hotel stay reimbursement policy for PG&E power outages

The City of Menlo Park is evaluating its policy for one-night hotel stay reimbursements related to extended PG&E power outages. If this outage event extends into Thursday evening, March 16, updated information about potential reimbursements will be posted to the city website (this storm update page) by 3 p.m., Thursday, March 16. 

For extended outages, learn about PG&E's discounts on hotels (PDF).

City of Menlo Park libraries to remain open extended hours

For those without power or needing a place to recharge, Menlo Park libraries will remain open extended hours until 10 p.m., Wednesday, March 15, and reopen again at 10 a.m., Thursday, March 16. These facilities are climate-controlled and offer seating, reading materials, laptop computers, places to charge mobile devices, and public access internet and Wi-Fi. Visit menlopark.gov/library or call 650-330-2520.

Avoid unstable creek banks; soil can collapse unexpectedly

Saturated soils along the banks of San Francisquito Creek along Woodland Avenue continue to make creek banks unstable and hazardous. Additional areas along the entire length of the creek banks may pose hazards, so please observe the creek from a safe distance and monitor creek levels online at menlopark.gov/creeklevels.

Keep informed of changing conditions

Report issues promptly

Please do not call 9-1-1 unless there is an imminent threat to life or other serious emergency.
For general questions consider texting the city at 650-679-7022.

March 14 update

March 14 update

While the flood threat and heavy rains have mostly passed, the High Wind Warning remains in effect. The City of Menlo Park has received nearly 50 calls for service related to downed trees and some of these have caused localized power outages and forced street closures.

Public Works crews are in the field addressing these tree issues and working to keep streets open. You can check the Zonehaven map for street closures (shown as red circles with a horizontal line) and to make sure you Know Your Zone. The City's emergency operations center will be on standby mode this evening to monitor the ongoing weather and power outages. 

For all power outages, please report them to PG&E and monitor its Outage Center map to get the latest updates from PG&E on estimated restoration times.

Power outages are also causing traffic signal outages. Please drive carefully and treat any signal that is flashing or out as a stop sign. City crews will work to place temporary stops signs at these locations as time allows. 

Menlo Park libraries are open and available until 8 p.m. tonight as a refuge for those without power. They offer seating, reading materials, laptop computers, places to charge mobile devices, and public access internet and Wi-Fi. Visit menlopark.gov/library.

10 essential steps to take during a power outage

  1. Remain calm and assess the situation:
    When a power outage occurs, first assess whether it's just your home or the entire neighborhood. Check your circuit breaker to make sure it hasn't been tripped. If your neighbors are also without power, it's likely a neighborhood outage.
  2. Report the outage:
    If you've confirmed that it's a power outage, contact PG&E using its Outage Center map website or call 1-800-743-5002 to report the issue. They can provide information on the estimated restoration time.
  3. Unplug sensitive electronics:
    To prevent potential damage from power surges when the electricity is restored, unplug any sensitive electronics like computers, televisions and gaming systems.
  4. Gather emergency supplies:
    Locate your emergency preparedness kit, which should contain flashlights, batteries, a portable radio, a first-aid kit and essential documents. Make sure everyone in your household knows where to find these items.
  5. Use alternative light sources:
    Use flashlights or battery-powered lanterns to illuminate your home. Avoid using candles due to the risk of fire.
  6. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed:
    Minimize opening refrigerator and freezer doors to preserve the cold air inside. Food in a closed refrigerator will stay cold for about four hours, while a full freezer can keep food frozen for up to 48 hours.
  7. Conserve your cellphone battery:
    Turn off nonessential apps, lower screen brightness and switch to airplane mode to conserve your phone's battery life. Save battery power for emergency calls and important updates.
  8. Stay warm:
    During winter, layer clothing, and use blankets to stay warm. Close doors to unused rooms to conserve heat.
  9. Use a portable generator safely:
    If you choose to use a portable generator, make sure to use it according to the manufacturer's guidelines. Operate it outdoors and away from windows, doors and vents to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
  10. Stay informed and connected:
    Use a battery-powered or hand-crank radio to receive updates from local authorities. Check for updates from PG&E and stay in contact with friends, family and neighbors for additional support. Make sure you are subscribed to emergency and non-emergency alerts from the City and follow the City’s social media channels.

Bonus tip: Consider visiting the local library. Often times our local libraries may be unaffected by the power outages and for those without power or needing a place to recharge, Menlo Park libraries are open and accessible every day of the week. They are climate-controlled, and offer seating, reading materials, laptop computers, places to charge mobile devices, and public access internet and Wi-Fi. For more information about regular library hours and services, visit menlopark.gov/library or call 650-330-2520.

Avoid unstable creek banks; soil can collapse unexpectedly

Crews have taped off and placed no parking signs along portions of Woodland Avenue as saturated soils from previous rains and the upcoming storm will continue to make creek banks unstable and hazardous. Additional areas along the entire length of the creek banks may pose hazards, so please observe the creek from a safe distance and monitor creek levels online at menlopark.gov/creeklevels.

Keep informed of changing conditions

Report issues promptly

Please do not call 9-1-1 unless there is an imminent threat to life or other serious emergency.
For general questions consider texting the city at 650-679-7022.

March 13 update

March 13 update

The National Weather Services has issued a fresh Flood Watch and High Wind Warning for our area starting tonight as widespread moderate to heavy rain spreads across the entire region late Monday and on Tuesday. Strong and gusty winds will also develop this evening and continue through the day on Tuesday. High winds gusts could bring down trees or power lines and cause unsecured items to blow around. Rain fall totals are predicted to be in the 1.5-2 inch range, but could be higher. With soils already saturated, quick runoff is expected.  

Staff will remain alert overnight and monitor local channel and creek flows. Crews will be on call to respond to street and tree issues as needed. It is important for residents to secure items in your yards, and to have your plans ready in case of heavy rain or power outages. 

The Tuesday morning commute is expected to be especially impacted due to the timing of the storm and heavy wind and rain. If you can, try to delay your commute or work from home. If you must venture out, remember to allow extra time and to drive cautiously. Do not drive through standing water and always drive with your headlights on if it is raining. Remember: Wipers on = Headlights on!  

Visit the National Weather Service for the latest weather forecast information.

Sandbags

Filled sandbags (while supplies last) are available at the Burgess Drive/Alma Street sandbag station and Ivy Plaza (413 Ivy Drive).

Sandbags and loose sand are also available at the City's regular sandbag locations:

Avoid unstable creek banks; soil can collapse unexpectedly

Crews have taped off and placed no parking signs along portions of Woodland Avenue as saturated soils from previous rains and the upcoming storm will continue to make creek banks unstable and hazardous. Additional areas along the entire length of the creek banks may pose hazards, so please observe the creek from a safe distance and monitor creek levels online at menlopark.gov/creeklevels.

Stay prepared and storm-ready

  1. Make a plan
  2. Ensure you are connected to receive notifications for both home and work locations
  3. Figure out your household communications plan
  4. Know Your Zone for evacuations
  5. Consider specific needs of your household to help make sure it is ready:
  • Necessities like food, water and medications are stocked
  • Your home is protected as best as possible from storm effects such as flooding and wind by placing sandbags and securing loose items
  • Have your vehicle and emergency kit are ready to go, if needed   

Keep informed of changing conditions

Ways to help others

We are stronger as a community when we help those around us and work together during times of adversity. If your home is prepared and you would now like to help others, here are some suggestions for what you could do: 

  • Check on your neighbors. Offer your assistance, particularly to those who may be elderly or infirm. Offer to help get them sandbags for their home if needed. Ensure they have a way to get current information on potential flooding or commit to them that you will monitor current information and share it with them when needed. Ensure they know they can call 9-1-1 if they need emergency assistance. 
  • Help pack sandbags. It may be hard for some people to use a shovel to fill their own sandbags, or to load them into their vehicle. If you are able to help, head to one of the sandbag stations and see if anyone there needs assistance.
  • Check and help clear storm drains in your neighborhood. If you have a storm drain inlet near your home in the street, consider using a rake and clearing any debris (leaves, tree branches, etc.) that may have accumulated over the grate. If possible, please place organic matter into your compost bins. This will help reduce ponding on our roadways for the next storm. Encourage your friends in other neighborhoods to do the same thing. 

Avoid parking on or near storm drains

All residents are encouraged to avoid parking near storm drains or inlets where vehicle tires or other debris may obstruct water flow.

If you have a storm drain inlet near your home in the street, consider using a rake and clearing any nearby debris (leaves, tree branches, etc.) that may have accumulated around or over the grate. If possible, please place organic matter into your compost bins. This will help reduce ponding on our roadways for the next storm.

Report issues promptly

Please do not call 9-1-1 unless there is an imminent threat to life or other serious emergency.
For general questions consider texting the city at 650-679-7022.

March 10 update

March 10 update 

Overnight heavy rains fell throughout our area, but no major flooding occurred. The San Francisquito Creek Joint Powers Authority reports that the San Francisquito Creek’s peak flow topped out at 3,340 cubic feet per second (cfs) this morning at 3:45 a.m., ranking it as the 20th highest historic peak streamflow rate per among their records, but still below flood stage and not high enough to trigger action or flood warnings. Water is flowing and continues to recede. Our crews, along with our partner agencies, remain vigilant to debris and obstructions along the creek. 

Staff from the City and One Shoreline also monitored Atherton Channel water levels overnight. Flows peaked just shy of flood stage around 2 a.m., and no flooding was in Menlo Park. Water levels dropped quickly after the rain slowed and tides began to recede after 3 a.m.

The City of Menlo Park received no calls about downed trees, power outages or the need for street closures overnight. Some minor surface street ponding can always be expected during rain events, so drivers are encouraged to slow down and take caution. Crews remain available to respond to clean up efforts today and through the weekend.

If you currently have sandbags, please do not dispose of them until additional storms have passed. More rain and wind are forecast throughout the weekend and into mid-week.

A Flood Watch remains in effect until at least 10 a.m., Sunday, March 12.

Visit the National Weather Service for the latest weather forecast information.

Sandbags

Filled sandbags (while supplies last) are available at the Burgess Drive/Alma Street sandbag station and Ivy Plaza (413 Ivy Drive).

Sandbags and loose sand are also available at the City's regular sandbag locations:

Avoid unstable creek banks; soil can collapse unexpectedly

Crews have taped off and placed no parking signs along portions of Woodland Avenue as saturated soils from previous rains and the upcoming storm will continue to make creek banks unstable and hazardous. Additional areas along the entire length of the creek banks may pose hazards, so please observe the creek from a safe distance and monitor creek levels online at menlopark.gov/creeklevels.

Stay prepared and storm-ready

  1. Make a plan
  2. Ensure you are connected to receive notifications for both home and work locations
  3. Figure out your household communications plan
  4. Know Your Zone for evacuations
  5. Consider specific needs of your household to help make sure it is ready:
  • Necessities like food, water and medications are stocked
  • Your home is protected as best as possible from storm effects such as flooding and wind by placing sandbags and securing loose items
  • Have your vehicle and emergency kit are ready to go, if needed   

Keep informed of changing conditions

Ways to help others

We are stronger as a community when we help those around us and work together during times of adversity. If your home is prepared and you would now like to help others, here are some suggestions for what you could do: 

  • Check on your neighbors. Offer your assistance, particularly to those who may be elderly or infirm. Offer to help get them sandbags for their home if needed. Ensure they have a way to get current information on potential flooding or commit to them that you will monitor current information and share it with them when needed. Ensure they know they can call 9-1-1 if they need emergency assistance. 
  • Help pack sandbags. It may be hard for some people to use a shovel to fill their own sandbags, or to load them into their vehicle. If you are able to help, head to one of the sandbag stations and see if anyone there needs assistance.
  • Check and help clear storm drains in your neighborhood. If you have a storm drain inlet near your home in the street, consider using a rake and clearing any debris (leaves, tree branches, etc.) that may have accumulated over the grate. If possible, please place organic matter into your compost bins. This will help reduce ponding on our roadways for the next storm. Encourage your friends in other neighborhoods to do the same thing. 

Avoid parking on or near storm drains

All residents are encouraged to avoid parking near storm drains or inlets where vehicle tires or other debris may obstruct water flow.

If you have a storm drain inlet near your home in the street, consider using a rake and clearing any nearby debris (leaves, tree branches, etc.) that may have accumulated around or over the grate. If possible, please place organic matter into your compost bins. This will help reduce ponding on our roadways for the next storm.

Report issues promptly

Please do not call 9-1-1 unless there is an imminent threat to life or other serious emergency.
For general questions consider texting the city at 650-679-7022.

March 9 update

March 9 - 11:30 a.m. update

The National Weather Service San Francisco Bay Area forecast continues to call for a major atmospheric river event to arrive today (Thursday) and continue into Friday, bringing wind, rain and thunderstorm hazards. Rain and flooding concerns are expected to then continue into early next week.

For the San Francisco Peninsula, rain may cause an enhanced flood risk. Roadway flooding and will cause slower commute times. Heavy rain may cause flash flooding. Highest rainfall totals will be in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Ponding of water in low-lying and poor drainage areas, including near blocked culverts and storm drains may occur. Strong winds, with peak gusts of 30-50 mph, Thursday night into Friday morning across most of the area, may produce difficult driving conditions for high profile vehicles, knock down trees and tree limbs, cause downed powerlines, blow over fences and unsecured objects. 

Get the latest forecast and weather updates directly from the National Weather Service Bay Area.

City preparations

The City of Menlo Park plans to have crews monitoring storm drains and available to respond to reports of downed trees or localized flooding. We are monitoring creek levels and coordinating with our regional partners as necessary. 

We will continue to share updates on the city website at menlopark.gov/stormupdate, but encourage everyone to sign up for both emergency and non-emergency alerts, as well as following the city social media channels.

Sandbags

Filled sandbags (while supplies last) are available at the Burgess Drive/Alma Street sandbag station and Ivy Plaza (413 Ivy Drive).

Sandbags and loose sand are also available at the City's regular sandbag locations:

Avoid unstable creek banks; soil can collapse unexpectedly

Crews have taped off and placed no parking signs along portions of Woodland Avenue as saturated soils from previous rains and the upcoming storm will continue to make creek banks unstable and hazardous. Additional areas along the entire length of the creek banks may pose hazards, so please observe the creek from a safe distance and monitor creek levels online at menlopark.gov/creeklevels.

Home and individual preparation

  1. Make a plan
  2. Ensure you are connected to receive notifications for both home and work locations
  3. Figure out your household communications plan
  4. Know Your Zone for evacuations
  5. Consider specific needs of your household to help make sure it is ready:
  • Necessities like food, water and medications are stocked
  • Your home is protected as best as possible from storm effects such as flooding and wind by placing sandbags and securing loose items
  • Have your vehicle and emergency kit are ready to go, if needed   

Stay informed of changing conditions

Ways to help others

We are stronger as a community when we help those around us and work together during times of adversity. If your home is prepared and you would now like to help others, here are some suggestions for what you could do: 

  • Check on your neighbors. Offer your assistance, particularly to those who may be elderly or infirm. Offer to help get them sandbags for their home if needed. Ensure they have a way to get current information on potential flooding or commit to them that you will monitor current information and share it with them when needed. Ensure they know they can call 9-1-1 if they need emergency assistance. 
  • Help pack sandbags. It may be hard for some people to use a shovel to fill their own sandbags, or to load them into their vehicle. If you are able to help, head to one of the sandbag stations and see if anyone there needs assistance.
  • Check and help clear storm drains in your neighborhood. If you have a storm drain inlet near your home in the street, consider using a rake and clearing any debris (leaves, tree branches, etc.) that may have accumulated over the grate. If possible, please place organic matter into your compost bins. This will help reduce ponding on our roadways for the next storm. Encourage your friends in other neighborhoods to do the same thing. 

Avoid parking near on or near storm drains

All residents are encouraged to avoid parking near storm drains or inlets where vehicle tires or other debris may obstruct water flow.

If you have a storm drain inlet near your home in the street, consider using a rake and clearing any nearby debris (leaves, tree branches, etc.) that may have accumulated around or over the grate. If possible, please place organic matter into your compost bins. This will help reduce ponding on our roadways for the next storm.

Report issues promptly

Please do not call 9-1-1 unless there is an imminent threat to life or other serious emergency.
For general questions consider texting the city at 650-679-7022.

March 8 update

March 8 - 9 a.m. update 

The National Weather Service San Francisco Bay Area predicts atmospheric river will affect us late this week and include rain, wind and thunderstorms. The storm is expected to arrive Thursday afternoon and continue through the weekend.

This system is tapping into very moist subtropical moisture, which will allow for moderate to periods of heavy precipitation. Latest model guidance suggests the coastal slopes of the Santa Cruz Mountains and Santa Lucia Mountains will receive the greatest accumulation of precipitation. Rainfall totals will range from 1.5 to 4 inches. Moderate to heavy rain will lead to rapid rises of area rivers, streams and creeks. Localized ponding of water in low-lying or poorly drained areas as well as localized flooding is possible due to blocked culverts, drainages and storm drains. Strong winds, with gusts of 30-50 mph, may produce difficult driving conditions for high profile vehicles, knock down trees and tree limbs, cause downed powerlines, blow over fences and unsecured objects. 

Get the latest forecast and weather updates directly from the National Weather Service Bay Area.

Take steps now to prepare

  1. Make a plan
  2. Ensure you are connected to receive notifications for both home and work locations
  3. Figure out your household communications plan
  4. Know Your Zone for evacuations
  5. Consider specific needs of your household to help make sure it is ready:
  • Necessities like food, water and medications are stocked
  • Your home is protected as best as possible from storm effects such as flooding and wind by placing sandbags and securing loose items
  • Have your vehicle and emergency kit are ready to go, if needed  

Free sandbags available

If you are a Menlo Park resident in need of sandbags, you can get them at the City's two primary sandbag stations and the temporary pop-up station:

Storm drains

If you have a storm drain inlet near your home in the street, consider using a rake and clearing any nearby debris (leaves, tree branches, etc.) that may have accumulated around or over the grate. If possible, please place organic matter into your compost bins. This will help reduce ponding on our roadways for the next storm.

All residents are encouraged to avoid parking near storm drains or inlets where vehicle tires or other debris may obstruct water flow.

Stay informed of changing conditions

Ways to help

We are stronger as a community when we help those around us and work together during times of adversity. If your home is prepared and you would now like to help others, here are some suggestions for what you could do: 

  • Check on your neighbors. Offer your assistance, particularly to those who may be elderly or infirm. Offer to help get them sandbags for their home if needed. Ensure they have a way to get current information on potential flooding or commit to them that you will monitor current information and share it with them when needed. Ensure they know they can call 9-1-1 if they need emergency assistance. 
  • Help pack sandbags. It may be hard for some people to use a shovel to fill their own sandbags, or to load them into their vehicle. If you are able to help, head to one of the sandbag stations and see if anyone there needs assistance.
  • Check and help clear storm drains in your neighborhood. If you have a storm drain inlet near your home in the street, consider using a rake and clearing any debris (leaves, tree branches, etc.) that may have accumulated over the grate. If possible, please place organic matter into your compost bins. This will help reduce ponding on our roadways for the next storm. Encourage your friends in other neighborhoods to do the same thing. 

Report issues promptly

Please do not call 9-1-1 unless there is an imminent threat to life or other serious emergency.
For general questions consider texting the city at 650-679-7022.

  

  

 

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