Residents, motorists and businesses in Morgan Hill have experienced “significant impacts” due to the current and ongoing storm that has blanketed the South Bay this weekend.
Heavy rains throughout the afternoon Jan. 8 resulted in flooding throughout town—including in downtown Morgan Hill—as well as numerous road closures and power outages. Weather and public safety authorities issued a flash flood warning in Morgan Hill, Gilroy and San Martin that ended about 7:30 p.m. Heavy rains during that period caused Little Llagas Creek, which runs along the west side of Morgan Hill, to overflow, resulting in flooding in downtown Morgan Hill and other areas.
“West Little Llagas Creek in Morgan Hill reached its capacity and began spilling over creek banks at approximately 1:37 p.m., causing flooding on Llagas Creek Drive through downtown Morgan Hill to Edmonson Road,” reads a press release from the Santa Clara Valley Water District, published about 6:30 p.m. Jan. 8.
By about 7:15 p.m., the creek’s waters—as well as downtown floodwaters—had begun to subside as the rain lightened up, according to authorities.
The City of Morgan Hill activated its Emergency Operations Center in response to the flooding, and the police department posted a long list of road closures throughout town. These include at Monterey and Watsonville roads, where parts of the roadway were reportedly under two feet of water; Wright Avenue at Monterey and Hale; and Bisceglia Avenue.
Police cautioned motorists to avoid other areas where high standing water was reported in the roadways, such as the La Crosse Drive area; Maple Leaf Mobile Home Park; Woodland Mobile Home Park; La Jolla south of La Crosse; and Wright and Peak avenues.
MHPD also reported that a power outage in the Nordstrom neighborhood had affected about 180 homes. As of 8:30 p.m., PG&E’s website showed the number of affected customers was down to 50, with no estimate of when the power would be fully restored.
Drivers and pedestrians are advised to stay clear of all creeks and waterways, according to the city’s Jan. 8 press release. Flash floods can occur within a few minutes with extreme force. Be aware that there may be open manholes on several roadways.
The rain is forecast to taper as the night goes on; however, there is a potential for significant runoff from the hills even as the rain decreases, according to city staff. It is anticipated that rain will continue through Jan. 13 and the potential for flooding will continue to be an ongoing concern.
Any new local flooding or downed trees can be reported to the city by calling (408) 779-2101.
