Wednesday, September 16, 2015

El Niño: 5 tips for preparing for a wet winter


After four years of drought, Californians could soon be contending with a wet winter as one of the strongest El Niños on record is brewing in the Pacific Ocean. Here are five tips for preparing for the possibility of a season of heavy storms:
1) Have any trees that appear weakened by drought inspected by an arborist. In high winds, downed trees and branches can knock out power or seriously damage homes and vehicles.
2) Have roof repairs made and other leaks fixed before it starts to rain.
3) Make sure gutters are clear of leaves and other debris.
4) Consider flood insurance. Homeowners policies typically do not cover flood damage. Most flood policies require a 30-day waiting period.
Jonathan Castillo, a roofer with Town and County Roofing and Solar, installs a roof on a home in Alamo, Calif., on Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2015. The prospect
Jonathan Castillo, a roofer with Town and County Roofing and Solar, installs a roof on a home in Alamo, Calif., on Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2015. The prospect of a heavy winter deluge from El Nino-driven rain has homeowners scrambling to get the roofs on their homes buttoned up and roofers say business is the best it's been in years. (Anda Chu/Bay Area News Group) ( ANDA CHU )
5) In case of flooding, mudslides or other storm-related natural disasters, have an emergency plan in place for your family, and a dry place for storm supplies.
Contact Bruce Newman at 408-920-5004. Follow him at Twitter.com/BruceNewmanT

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