City prepares for forecasted storm

Report trees in the street, signals without power, significant street flooding

Brian Coddington, Communications Director, 509.625.6740

Thursday, October 13, 2016 at 2:44 p.m.

With continued rain and wind in the forecast for overnight and tomorrow, the City of Spokane has tuned up emergency equipment like generators and chain saws, reviewed response plans, and confirmed the availability of extra crews, if needed.

Power outages, downed trees, and street flooding are possible during these conditions. The City asks citizens to report traffic signals without power, significant street flooding, and trees in the street to the My Spokane desk at 755.CITY (2489). Please note the specific location so crews can be directed to problem areas more easily.

The City also is providing the following tips for residents to stay safe:

  • Don’t approach downed power lines. Call 9-1-1 to report a downed line.
  • If a tree has fallen into the street, please avoid the area and report it so it can be moved out of the street. If the tree is touching power lines, do not approach it.
  • When the power’s out, everybody stops. If a traffic signal is dark because of a lack of power, use caution and treat that intersection as a four-way stop.
  • Don’t drive through large puddles of standing water on City streets. Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars and can cause a loss of control and possible stalling. Motorists should expect standing water at intersections and the bottom of hills.
  • Consider clearing away leaves and other debris from storm drains near your home or business to help avoid street flooding, if it is safe to do so.

Additionally, the City has alerted contractors to monitor street construction zones for possible flooding or other hazards caused by the storm.