SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — “Our city crews are ready and prepared for any needs that come through. They’ll be on call all weekend,” said Candace Hadley, the media manager for the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department.

A reassuring message as San Diego Fire-Rescue (SDFD) monitors conditions ahead of a major rainstorm headed to San Diego.

“It helps us pre-position crews and have resources ready to go depending on where the weather hits hardest,” Hadley said.

But the National Weather Service says it’s still too early to tell exactly which areas will see the heaviest rain.

“Once we get a little bit closer—once we have actual rain on radar—we’ll be able to nail down where higher totals could fall. But right now, there’s still a lot of uncertainty,” said David Munyan, National Weather Service meteorologist.

Even so, forecasters say this system will bring significant rainfall across the region.

“Generally, we’re still thinking this is going to be a pretty significant precipitation event. Multiple inches of rainfall for some valleys and urban areas,” said Munyan.

Munyan says it’s unusual for southern California to see this much rain over such a long period—and flooding is a real concern.

“If we get as much rain as in the forecast, flooding is always going to be a concern,” said Munyan.

City and county crews are getting ahead of it. SDFD says swift-water teams and lifeguards are ready to deploy if needed.

“…and that includes our lifeguards. We do have swift-water rescue teams. If we see the need, we’ll pre-position them throughout the region,” said Hadley.

The city’s stormwater department is also clearing drains that tend to clog and sweeping streets to keep trash and debris out of local waterways.

SDFD is also reminding drivers to slow down, leave extra space, follow signs, and never drive through flooded areas.

“…any concerns, please report them through the get it done app, and our crews will respond as quickly as possible,” said Hadley.

To help protect property, San Diego County and Cal Fire are providing free sandbags at fire stations in unincorporated areas. A full list of locations can be found on the county’s website.

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