Businesses in Martinez are no strangers to flooding. Some have already brought out the sandbags in preparation for the storm.
Businesses in DT Martinez are no strangers to flooding . Some already have sandbags in prep for storm pic.twitter.com/5AUEzUpXyS
— Janet O (@JanetONews) December 21, 2015
"We are preparing for El Nino, we're preparing for any flooding that might happen from creek that's coming up, the water tends to rise during wet season," Grandshaw Florist's Angelique Wilkie said.
In years past, businesses had flood damage, and it's something businesses and residents alike say comes with the territory.
PHOTOS: Series of storms drenches Bay Area
"Living in Alhambra Valley, everyone is in flood zone," resident Heath Bartosh said.
Contra Costa County is reminding residents that sandbags are now available and are free.
Fill up 1/3 of sandbag , sand will be here for residents at west co detention facility in Richmond 24/7 pic.twitter.com/RZxztRH2XB
— Janet O (@JanetONews) December 21, 2015
The West County Detention Facility is one of several locations. If you come, be prepared with gloves, a shovel and remember to fill the bag 1/3 of the way.
Along with sandbags, homeowners are urged to follow these single steps to prevent local flooding.
If you want to help prevent flooding, clear the storm drains pic.twitter.com/ydU1efH3Am
— Janet O (@JanetONews) December 21, 2015
"We usually hear information about what do we do if creek rises into our yard. We try to get info on how to clean your creek, clean your storm drains of leaves, so water doesn't accumulate," Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors' John Gioia said.
County officials have been doing just that for months as they anticipate the biggest storm impacts from January to March when the El Nino driven storms arrive.
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Soggy in Gilroy. pic.twitter.com/hJjMZX3cyS
— Matt Keller (@MattKellerABC7) December 21, 2015
Winter Storm Warning! #Sierra #snow begins at 6000', climbs to 7000' this evening, falls to 6000' tonight. #tahoe pic.twitter.com/EJkZaU8nPM
— Mike Nicco (@MikeNiccoABC7) December 21, 2015
Astronomical Winter begins at 8:49 pm today. Only 9 hours, 32 minutes & 50 seconds of sunshine possible today. pic.twitter.com/4SCs1yRat8
— Mike Nicco (@MikeNiccoABC7) December 21, 2015