With significant rainfall expected Saturday, Bakersfield public works crews have been busy clearing storm drains. A city spokesperson advised residents to help keep drains clear by sweeping leaves and debris a foot to 18 inches from the curb, allowing street sweepers to prevent blockages.
There are contact numbers that residents can use if there are issues in their neighborhoods:
– Blocked Storm Drains: M-F, 7 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. – 661-326-3111
– Downed Trees/Branches: M-F, 5 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. – 661-326-3866
– Street Light, Traffic Signal Outage: M-F, 7 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. – 661-326-3781
– After Hours Emergency – 661-327-7111
Residents are reminded that landscape irrigation is prohibited during and 48 hours after measurable rainfall due to the city’s water use restrictions and drought mitigation plan.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) warns of potential delays on highways due to the rain.
Officer DC Williams emphasized the importance of reducing speed in wet conditions, stating, “The main, primary crash factor or primary collision factor in weather like this is speed. And if people would just slow down and take their time a lot of these crashes can be avoided.”
Williams noted that Highway 99 was temporarily closed near the Hard Rock Casino Tejon on Thursday due to capacity issues, a situation that could recur over the weekend. Flooding may also lead to road closures in certain areas.
Doug Shupe, a spokesperson for AAA, advised drivers to assess their readiness before driving in heavy rain.
“If you have to drive somewhere, in heavy wet weather, you want to make sure that you’re up for the drive. If you’re stressed out or you’re really tired or you’re upset, you probably should not get on the road because your mind won’t be focused on the road safely,” Shupe said.
The CHP and AAA remind drivers to wear seat belts and check tire tread before driving in wet weather. Additionally, phone applications like the American Red Cross Emergency App can be useful during this time.