Winter storms or rainy season in California can be deadly, causing flooding, flash floods, high coastal surf, mudslides, snow storms, and avalanches. Southern California does not have a high annual rain fall and often experiences long drought seasons. This fact may make us believe that we are safe and not subject to flooding hazards.
Oceanside, due to its location, is exposed and vulnerable to flooding, particularly during the winter rainy season.
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Heavy rains can cause mud slide on the slopes and flooding in low lying areas surrounding the San Luis Rey River, Pilgrim Creek, Garrison Creek, Buena Vista Creek, and Loma Alta Creek. Storm systems such as a "Pineapple Express," or El Niño paired with extreme high tides, can bring storm surge into tidal bays and creeks. Tsunamis and hurricanes, which create huge waves, pose further risk to coastal areas. As the tsunami wave barrels into the shore, its strong currents can cause immense damage to buildings along the coast and in low-lying areas near the creeks.
Changing weather patterns, erosion, and development can affect floodplain boundaries. FEMA is currently updating and modernizing the nation's Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMS). These digital flood hazard maps provide an official depiction of flood hazards for each community and for properties located within it.
Contact the City to find out the flood zone and level of risks in the area you live. FEMA conducts a Flood Insurance Study and uses the data to create FIRMs that show different flood risk areas. See your map and learn how to read it so you can make an informed decision about protecting your family, home, and business from hazard and losses from flooding. Prepare an emergency plan for your family.
All structures located in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHA), as designated on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), are particularly vulnerable to flood hazards. Copies of FIRMs are available in the City Engineer's Office or on the City Webpage.
For more information, one-on-one assistance, or to request a site visit, contact the City of Oceanside Engineering Division at (760) 435-3950 or (760) 435-5086, or engineeringstaff@oceansideca.org
In the event of a potential significant storm, the City of Oceanside may utilize its Reverse-911 system (Alert San Diego) and phone calls would be made to residents and businesses with emergency information. Phone calls are made to landlines or to cell phone numbers that are registered with Alert San Diego. Cell phones may be registered free of charge; click Here to register your cell phone. There is no need to register landlines, for they are automatically in the Alert San Diego system.
Flood protection can involve a variety of changes to your house and property – changes that can vary in complexity and cost. You may be able to make some types of changes yourself. Property protection measures include: