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Preparing for El Nino Storm Season on Campus

Ways We Prepare

The following are ways our Building Coordinators, Facilities Management, Housing Maintenance, and Asset Management teams prepare.

  • Cleaning loading docks and high-traffic areas
  • Keep trash and recycling containers closed when not in use. 
  • Inspect and maintain grease traps and oil-storage bins at dining facilities to prevent grease, oil, and other pollutants from entering the storm drain system.
  • Remove trash, leaves, sediment, and other debris from storm drains, catch basins, trench drains, and sumps.
  • Service stormwater treatment devices, including trash capture systems and underground clarifiers, to ensure they are functioning properly.
  • Prepare a water intrusion response kit with absorbent materials (i.e. sock, pig, and dams).
  • Continue monitoring storm drains and drainage infrastructure.
  • Remove accumulated leaves, trash, and debris that may restrict stormwater flow.
  • Promptly report blocked drains, localized flooding, or overwhelmed drainage systems.
  • Be aware that flooding and water intrusion can occur when drains become blocked or when stormwater exceeds system capacity.
  • Install and swap entry mats: Place moisture-absorbent rubber or cleated walk-off mats at all building entrances, replacing them as they become saturated.

After a significant storm, impacted areas and stormwater infrastructure should be inspected again, with accumulated debris removed and any maintenance needs addressed before the next rain event.

  • Inspecting known water intrusion areas, including roof drains, garage drains, and areas with previous flooding issues.
  • Operational testing of sump pumps, float switches, and high-water alarms.
  • Checking emergency generators, ATS status, and fuel levels.
  • Inspecting vulnerable electrical and mechanical areas for potential water intrusion.
  • Verifying portable pumps, hoses, water containment supplies, and PPE are available at each property.
  • Reviewing additional staffing needs based on the severity of the forecast.
  • Ensuring active leaks, equipment deficiencies, and temporary measures are properly documented and communicated between shifts.
  • Conducting post-storm inspections and coordinating necessary repairs with Property Management.

Report an Incident or Concern

On Campus

Report any of the following to Facilities Management 24/7 at (310) 825-9236.

  • Indoor major leaks and flooding
  • Overflowing storm drains
  • Sewer Overflows

Asset Management off-campus buildings:

Asset Management 24/7 phone line (310) 794-0671

  • Press 1 for emergencies
  • Press 2 for work orders

Asset Management tenant portal website: Tenant Portal