Flood Preparedness

Winter Storm Damage Relief Fund - Now Open to City of San Mateo Residents & Businesses

City of San Mateo residents, businesses and property owners that experienced damage due to the extreme storms between Dec. 31, 2022 to Jan. 12, 2023 can now apply for up to $5,000 in assistance for expenses not already covered by insurance or other sources. The application period is open March 22, 2023 through April 21, 2023, after which recipients will be chosen by lottery. Covered expenses can include personal property damage, minor or major repairs, clean up or mold remediation costs, expenses incurred due to displacement and other expenses. 

Visit www.cityofsanmateo.org/stormrelief for more details, eligibility requirements or to apply. 

Another atmospheric river is here and our region is expected to receive significant rainfall and high winds in the coming days. With the ground already saturated there is a high potential for flooding, downed trees and landslides. We are responding to many calls for service, please be patience as we prioritize response.

Please only use 9-1-1 if it is a life-threatening emergency. 

If you are in need of assistance, don't have power and need a place to stay or other resources, please call 2-1-1

Power Outage Updates: PG&E Outage Map

We are continuing to respond to impacts from the recent storms that have significantly impacted our region. For the latest forecast updates, visit www.weather.gov/mtr/

How You Can be Prepared:

  • Get prepared NOW – get any supplies, groceries, sandbags etc. in advance.
  • Charge your devices and be prepared for potential power outages - visit PG&E's outage map for updates
  • If you are able, avoid driving or being out on the roads during heavy rains. If you must drive, NEVER DRIVE THROUGH A FLOODED ROAD
  • Sign up for emergency alerts with your address through the Countywide SMC Alert http://www.smcalert.info/
Sandbags Available to San Mateo Residents
Our self-serve sandbag stations is open to City of San Mateo residents: Corp Yard at 1949 Pacific Blvd. 

Sandbag Rules
  • MAXIMUM 10 bags per vehicle
  • MUST be a San Mateo resident or Property Owner (be prepared to show proof of residency/ownership)
  • BRING your own shovel & heavy-duty trash bags - Sand and bags will be provided based on availability - bring your own heavy-duty trash bags in case bags run out.
  • MUST be able to fill the bags yourself (these are self-serve locations)


Traffic Updates

Visit San Mateo Police Department's Nixle page for local updates

Sign up for County of San Mateo's SMC Alert system for countywide road closure and traffic updates

  1. Who to Call
  2. Resources & Recovery Information
  3. Be Prepared

Please do not call 9-1-1 unless it is an emergency.

We respond to many calls throughout our community and ask for your patience as we must prioritize how we respond. Please note the City does not manage private property, and private property owners are responsible for maintaining their own property including clearing downed trees.

To report flooding, a clogged drain or a downed tree on public property - please call (650) 522-7300, if it is after hours call 650-522-7700. 

Important Phone Numbers

  • Report Flooding, Clogged Drain, Sewer Overflow or Downed Trees: Call 650-522-7300. 
  • Report Other Non-emergency Issues: Call dispatch 650-522-7700. 
  • Report Downed Powerline: To report a downed powerline call 911.

Please DO NOT call 911 to report flooded roadways and clogged drains. It is important that we keep 911 telephone lines clear for life-threatening emergencies.

Flooded Homes & County Health
San Mateo County Public Health has expanded health and safety guidelines for residents with flooded homes.

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How the City is Preparing & Responding

  • Teams are out re-clearing storm water catch basins and trash racks throughout the city
  • In areas more prone to flooding, for safety reasons we may proactively close roads and provide detours
  • Testing stormwater pump stations and planning for operational needs throughout the storm
  • Preparing for additional staffing to assist during the storm
  • Maintaining a sandbag station at the Corp Yard 
  • Marina Lagoon will be held at winter operating levels and staffed 24/7 during the peak of the storm
  • Arborists have been out monitoring public trees
  • Coordinating with the County and neighboring cities
  • We monitor areas with a history of flooding for storm conditions. Read more about these flood-vulnerable areas that are part of the FEMA Flood Zone.

Emergency Preparedness Resources

San Mateo Consolidated Fire's Office of Emergency Services maintains a robust list of resources for your own emergency planning. Preparing before an emergency can make a big difference when you have little time to spare. 

Important Links

Traffic & Road Closure Updates

Major road and highway information: 511.org: Latest Traffic Reports 

Follow San Mateo Police Department Twitter.