Petaluma Crews Clear Creeks and Storm Drains Ahead of Winter Rains

PETALUMA CENTER, Sonoma County — Petaluma city crews are clearing vegetation, sediment and obstructions from waterways and storm drains in preparation for the 2026–27 rainy season, according to an official city agency update.

The city described maintenance near Thompson Creek and Westridge Park, and said teams were inspecting catch basins and drainage systems with attention to places that have experienced flooding in the past. Although these particular crews may not be working on every street in central Petaluma, the maintenance is relevant to downtown businesses and residents who rely on open drainage channels and safe travel during storms.

The city also asks property owners to keep leaves and rubbish out of gutters and drains, avoid sweeping yard debris into streets and leave room for street sweepers on scheduled cleaning days. Heavy rainfall can still overwhelm a maintained system, so work done in October is not a guarantee against flooding.

What residents should know

Residents should report blocked catch basins through municipal services, check live storm warnings and avoid driving through floodwater. The city update discusses preparedness rather than predicting that a specific storm will occur on a specific date.

Primary source: Official agency information.

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