Crews on high alert as forecast calls for storms

https://youtu.be/JZzHBpKtavM

Medford, Ore. — Heavy rain expected to hit Southwestern Oregon throughout the week and that has crews on high alert, ready to be called in case of emergency.

“We are always concerned when there’s rain in the forecast,” Director of Medford Public Works Cory Crebbin said.

Crebbin said crews work year round clearing drain ditches of leaves and debris to prepare for storms, including the ones forecasted this week.

“We may have local flooding, meaning in one or two places we could have a storm drain blocked,” he said.

That’s why Mix Bakeshop in downtown Ashland was flooded in a rain storm this summer. Barista Gerry Rodriguez said they have sandbags on standby and now everyone knows how to use the storm door.

“We’re a lot less concerned than last time because we’re prepared from last storms events,” he said.

Crebbin said when that rain does fall Medford is in good shape to deal with potential hazards.

If you see any blocked drains, flooding, or downed trees on public property you’re asked to call public works.