Torrential Flooding In San Diego Leaves Pets And Families In Need of Help
The people and pets of San Diego, California, are still recovering from a winter storm that brought torrential downpours and caused widespread flooding. However, more rain is forecasted over the next few days.
Wind gusts are expected to reach 40-50 mph along the coast, peaking around 45 mph inland. A flood watch has been issued for the entire county with rain totals expected of potentially 3 inches. Rainfall and flooding are causing landslides, road closures, and dangerous traveling conditions.
Greater Good Charities' Field Ops team members are on the ground in San Diego assessing the situation and providing emergency pet food supplies to the community alongside our partner, San Diego Humane Society.
The shelter and The Red Cross have set up a temporary emergency shelter at San Diego Municipal Gymnasium in Balboa Park for people and pets. They are also helping in the search of lost pets.
Tiger is staying cozy at our temporary evacuation shelter in Balboa Park. We are working with @SoCalRedCross to help people with pets impacted by the rain. Location: San Diego Municipal Gymnasium, 2111 Pan American Plaza, San Diego, 92101. More info at https://t.co/7IsRlDJwVd. pic.twitter.com/0FpHZMSa1V
— San Diego Humane Society (@sdhumane) February 2, 2024
"San Diego flood victims: If you have been unable to find your pet, need assistance on your property to locate your pet, or if you left your pet behind when evacuating and are unable to return, call San Diego Humane Society’s Dispatch so we can assist. 619-299-7012 (press 1 for Dispatch)."
San Diego flood victims: If you have been unable to find your pet, need assistance on your property to locate your pet, or if you left your pet behind when evacuating and are unable to return, call San Diego Humane Society’s Dispatch. 619-299-7012 (press 1 for Dispatch). pic.twitter.com/ubCoT9Wcfv
— San Diego Humane Society (@sdhumane) January 26, 2024
Pet food and supplies are being handed out to people with pets impacted by the storms.
San Diego Humane Society reminds residents, "With the rain moving in, pet owners should take extra precaution: Make sure your pet has identification (collar w. ID tag + a microchip). Prepare an emergency kit you can grab quickly & be sure your animals are indoors/have safe shelter to stay warm/dry."
With more rain tomorrow, pet owners should be prepared: Make sure your pet has identification (collar with ID tag + a microchip). Prepare an emergency kit you can grab quickly and be sure your animals are indoors or have safe shelter to stay warm and dry. https://t.co/vlftjJM4SM pic.twitter.com/oxJeDLkKiw
— San Diego Humane Society (@sdhumane) January 31, 2024
They also urge everyone to not wait for an evacuation order and to leave before disaster strikes. "Leave early & bring your pets with you. Pets cannot fend for themselves during disasters and leaving them behind can put their lives and those of rescuers in danger."
With more rain tomorrow and the potential for flooding: Don't wait for evacuation orders. Leave early & bring your pets with you. Pets cannot fend for themselves during disasters and leaving them behind can put their lives and those of rescuers in danger. https://t.co/vlftjJM4SM. pic.twitter.com/gDpuOirpkE
— San Diego Humane Society (@sdhumane) February 1, 2024
We urgently need your support to provide food and supplies to pets impacted by the flooding. Donate now!
Andrea Powell is an animal enthusiast who resides in West Michigan. When not writing, she is exploring the great outdoors with her dogs and horses.