Climate change is expected to drive more variability in rainfall from year to year and more intense transitions between droughts and flood events. Some areas of San Diego already flood when there are heavy rainfall events. As rainfall events become stronger in the future, the areas affected by flooding are projected to increase.

• Flood Insurance Rate Map - Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) are identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and show level of flood risk.
• National Flood Insurance Program - The City is a participant in the National Flood Insurance Program, which provide subsidized flood insurance for property owners within the Special Flood Hazard Areas, as shown on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps.
• Municipal Waterways Maintenance Plan - This plan guides maintenance of the storm drain system to protect life and property from potential flooding.
• Watershed Asset Management Plan - This plan identifies the investments needed to maintain the City's stormwater management system for flood risk management and stormwater quality.

Climate change drives more variability in our rainfall patterns, meaning more intense transitions between droughts and rain events, and more intense rainfall when we do receive it. Rainstorms with greater precipitation over a shorter period of time can increase flood risk and occurrence.

Heavy rainfall can cause flooding of roadways and create safety hazards. Heavy rains are a signal to be aware and check for flooding conditions. Remember never to drive your car into water of unknown depths and stay out of flooding areas. Water can rise quickly and may be moving more rapidly and powerfully than you can see.

• Learn more about storm preparedness.
• Visit the FEMA Flood Map Service Center to find your official flood map, access a range of other flood hazard products and take advantage of tools for better understanding flood risks.
• Know the safest route out when flooding occurs.