(Updated Thursday, March 11, 2010) 
It's beginning to feel like spring--a spring with showers. Prepare for more rain on Friday, when about one-third of an inch is expected to fall on the valley floor, and up to one inch in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The weekend and next week are forecast to be dry.
The rain is a welcome gift to county water supplies. Runoff from storms in January and February has increased district reservoir storage by more than 40,000 acre-feet (more than 13.1 billion gallons). Additional water was captured and has already been diverted to district drinking water treatment plants or used to replenish our local groundwater basins.
Total district reservoir storage is at 72.1 percent of capacity, and current total storage is at 108 percent of the average (20-year) storage for March.
Even with all the rain, the district is still calling for residents to conserve by at least 15 percent (at least 20 gallons per day). We're expecting to receive only 35 percent of our imported water allocations, and imported water makes up about half of our county’s water supply.
As part of the water district’s Stream Maintenance Program, crews worked last summer and fall to clear out area creeks in preparation for storms. The major types of maintenance include removing sediment, invasive vegetation, trash and debris, and also repairing eroded creek banks.
Meanwhile, the district's sandbag sites are open throughout the county (see sandbag locations link below.) This season, the district has delivered more than 50,000 filled sand bags to the distribution sites.
To receive flood-safety alerts and other tips, text the word “WATER” to 84444.
Important links for storm updates
Anyone who has concerns about a creek in their neighborhood is encouraged contact our online customer request system.
Storm tips:
Check out these flood safety tips and flood protection resources :
- Make sure storm drain inlets are clear of leaves and other blockages so that rainwater can flow into the storm drain system, rather than backing up and causing street flooding.
- Report downed trees and other storm-related blockages to the water district’s watershed hotline (408) 265-2607 ext. 2378 during business hours or use the Access Valley Water online reporting system.
- If you use sandbags, keep in mind that they are most effective when used to prevent flooding from one-foot-or-less of water from entering a home or business through doorways and garage door openings; please take only 20 to 30 bags per vehicle.
Sandbag sites run by the water district cities or the county, are operated on the honor system as a flood protection service to residents. The bags are not meant for use in construction or gardening activities.