Danger of Injury and Loss During Rainstorms Enhanced by Lack of Maintenance
On Monday, January 22, 2024, San Diego, California was hit by a major storm that caused damage and loss to property. Millions of San Diegans were impacted by the severe weather conditions. Over 2.7 inches of rain fell on that one day, compared to the average 2 inches for the whole month. Roadways were flooded, and freeways shut down. Several schools in the county closed due to power outages. In addition, hundreds of people had to be rescued from their homes, homeless camps evacuated, and over twenty people saved from the rushing waters. In addition, there were several reports of auto accidents, cars swept up in the water and homes and businesses flooding.
Firefighters and other first responders worked tirelessly to prevent further catastrophe. At a news conference, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria stated, “The amount of water we saw yesterday would’ve overwhelmed any city drainage system.” However, as storm crews inspected and prepped the city’s stormwater system prior in preparation for Monday’s storm, it was evident that major infrastructure work in the city’s stormwater system is required.
Governor Newsom declared a state of emergency for San Diego County stating, “I find that the local authority is inadequate to cope with the magnitude of the damage caused by these winter storms.”
The extent of damage caused by the rain is still unknown but the city has projected that at least $6 million would be needed to repair the devastation. It is yet to be seen if this amount takes into account damage done by falling trees and flying debris, which, if poorly maintained, can cause extensive injury and damage to people and property. CaseyGerry Partner Robert J. Francavilla touches on the dangers of falling trees during rain storms in this video, highlighting the potential for damage to property, injury or even death to people, and the importance of maintaining property to avoid such tragedies from occurring.
As San Diego recovers from the storm of a thousand years leaving many suffering extensive loss, several important questions come up: Was there further preventable action that could have been taken to limit the extent of the devastation? And who should be held responsible for failing to do so?
A report by ABC San Diego captured the extent of damage caused by the storm. Happy Hollow Trailer Park, a National City based Mobile Park flooded, damaging at least 30 homes parked on the premises. According to NBC, residents reported losing couches, beds and irreplaceable keepsakes. Volunteers have been assisting with the cleanup as residents try to deal with the aftermath of the storm.
Could the damage have been prevented with adequate storm systems maintained by the city, or were there other issues with the property that were neglected?
CaseyGerry has a long history of successfully representing those who have been harmed as the result of another’s actions or negligence.
If you or someone you know has been impacted by Monday’s rain/storm damage, we invite you to contact our law office to explore your legal rights at (619) 238-1811.
