Home / Wildfire and after-fire flooding

Wildfire and after-fire flooding

The hills around the Temecula Valley, from De Luz and the Santa Rosa Plateau to the slopes around wine country, are fire country. After a fire, the danger shifts to water: burned ground absorbs little rain, so storms can send fast runoff, mud and debris downhill for several years.

If you live below a burn scar

• Watch for flash flood and debris-flow warnings during storms and follow evacuation orders.
• Keep drains, culverts and channels near your home clear.
• Use sandbags or barriers to direct water away from doors and garages.
• Review your insurance: standard homeowners policies usually don't cover flood. Ask your agent about flood coverage.

Water damage from firefighting

Homes that survive a fire can still be soaked by firefighting water and affected by smoke. Restoration companies handle drying, smoke odor and cleanup. Document everything for your insurer.

Before fire season

• Keep defensible space around your home as your local fire agency recommends.
• Make sure outdoor hoses and spigots work and reach around the house.
• Store important documents where you can grab them fast.