La Verne Public Works crews are preparing for storms expected to bring heavy rain to Southern California this fall by clearing drainage systems, staging equipment and assigning standby crews.

Public Works is coordinating with the La Verne police and fire departments, Los Angeles County and emergency management agencies to monitor official forecasts, Public Works Director Danny Wu said in an email to La Verne Daily News.

The City has ordered and staged storm-related equipment and supplies at the City yard. Crews have deployed battery backup systems at key signalized intersections along Baseline Road and inspected, load-tested, fueled and deployed generators at critical City facilities.

Crews have also begun removing debris from major storm drains, catch basins and culverts throughout the City. Public Works cleared the riparian channel and is coordinating with Los Angeles County on its annual catch basin inspection and maintenance work. The City also contracted with CMAX Commercial Inc. to provide street sweeping services every other week citywide.

Where to Get Free Sandbag Materials

Sandbag materials are available to La Verne residents, businesses and schools for free at two locations:

• Behind the Public Safety Facility, 2061 Third St.
  Open 24-hours a day. The sand pile is located next to the shed to the side of the facility. Turn in from C Street and make a right. Self-service. Shovels and bags with ties are available next to the sand pile.
• Behind Fire Station 3, 5100 Esperanza Dr.
  Open 24-hours a day. Drive around to the parking lot behind the station off . Self-service. hovels and bags with ties are available next to the sand pile.

The La Verne Fire Department recommends two people to fill and load/unload sandbags. 10-bag maximum limit per household. Once sandbags are taken, they cannot be returned. Sandbags are not for resale.

Wu encouraged residents to monitor weather forecasts, understand their flood risk and follow instructions from emergency officials. Before a storm, residents should clear debris from gutters, downspouts and private drainage swales; secure loose outdoor items; and prepare for possible power outages.

During heavy rain or flooding, you should avoid parking on streets and use caution while driving.

Because flooding can occur outside federally designated high-risk areas, you should also consider nearby washes, slopes, low-lying streets and drainage systems when preparing for heavy rains.

Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (Draft plan. Waiting for Planning Commission review and then final City Council adoption in October).

Water flowing into streets, flooding and roadway safety hazards should be reported to Public Works at (909) 596-8744 during regular business hours, 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Report after-hours emergencies by calling (909) 593-2531.

Residents may submit other nonemergency maintenance concerns through the City’s online service request portal.

Stay Informed

📲 Sign up for CalAlerts and Alert LA County
📲 Sign up for La Verne alerts through Nixle. Text 91750 to 888777 . Alerts are available in English and Spanish.
📲 Download Genasys Protect, a free emergency alert and evacuation app.

Check power outage information through Southern California Edison.