BAKERSFIELD, Calif.(KBAK/KBFX) — With the National Weather Service issuing a flood watch for Bakersfield and other parts of Kern County through Thursday evening, city and county crews are preparing for possible flooding while urging residents to take steps now.
Rain in Bakersfield KBAK/KBFX
As rain moves into the area, one of the first lines of defense against street flooding is the storm drain system. The city of Bakersfield says it performs preventative maintenance ahead of winter storms, including cleaning and repairing drains. The city also asks residents to help keep drains clear by sweeping leaves and debris about 12 to 18 inches away from the curb so street sweepers can collect it.
Kern County Public Works also has a pre-storm preparation plan that includes clearing drainage pathways, adding personnel to respond to weather-related problems and offering free sand at designated locations to help residents prepare for possible flooding. Free sand is available at 10 designated locations throughout Kern County, and sites will be monitored and replenished as needed. A full list of locations is posted on their website.
“Personally, every time I see the flood watch, I don’t pay too much attention to it just ’cause I’ve seen it my whole life,” said Emiliano, a Bakersfield resident.
Another key step is understanding what insurance does and does not cover. “A lot of people have this impression that when they obtain home insurance, they are automatically covered for flood insurance, but that’s not true at all,” said Bianca Robles, an insurance agent with NavSav Insurance.
Robles said some areas of Kern County, including Arvin, are more likely to require flood insurance, while homeowners in Bakersfield may not be required to have it. She also urged residents not to wait until a flood threat is imminent to try to buy coverage.
“It’s pretty tough to obtain because we get those moratoriums where we’re not allowed to sell it until that flood passes…” Robles said.
Rain in Bakersfield KBAK/KBFX
“Now that you mentioned that, I feel like I gotta go get flood insurance now,” said Francine Sanchez, a Shafter resident.
Even if floodwater does not reach a home, heavy rain and wind can create other hazards, including downed power lines.
“It’s critically important that if you see a downed power line, stay away from it. Assume that it is live and do not touch it and call 911 or PG&E,” Smith said.
Kern County Public Works said residents can report downed stop signs or malfunctioning traffic signals to the California Highway Patrol, which will coordinate with Kern County Public Works.
Rain on March 31, 2026, in Bakersfield. PHOTO: KBAK/KBFX
In Bakersfield, residents can report flooding or blocked storm drains to the city through the Bakersfield Mobile app or by texting “Archie,” the city’s AI chatbot, at 855-513-2533.