How stormproof is Fresno?
Nov 21, 2024
FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – A bomb cyclone, and the millions of gallons of water it's picking up from a neighboring atmospheric river, is forecasted to rain down on the Central Valley Friday night - but is Fresno prepared?
According to First Street, a non-profit that assesses a property's environmental risk, the city of Fresno has a minor risk from flooding based on the level of risk the properties face. The areas at greatest risk can be found on this FEMA map.
This lack of risk can be largely attributed to the city's flood control efforts. According to the Fresno Metropolitan Flood Control District, the three dams and seven large detention basins protect the Fresno/Clovis urban area, and the 700+ miles of pipeline and more than 150 storm-water retention basins help divert excess water.
In addition to floods, much of the damage storms produce comes from wind. In fact, a woman in Washington died Tuesday after a tree fell on her, and last week, downed trees caused damage to residents' cars and shut down major roadways across the valley.
However, the majority of Fresno's trees are actually better equipped to handle the wind than many neighboring counties to the north and east.
Slender coniferous trees such as cedar, pines, and older willows are more susceptible than most to wind damage. Although Fresno does have some Willow and Cedar trees, tree experts say some of the most common species in the city are the sturdy Western Sycamore and Valley Oak.
While Fresno may be more prepared than other cities based on geographical features and preventative infrastructure, the City of Fresno is still taking additional preventative measures, such as cleaning out storm drains and sweeping the city streets.