Gilbert urges residents to prepare for wetter season

The town of Gilbert is encouraging residents to prepare for the possibility of a wetter-than-normal fall and winter season as weather forecasts indicate the potential for increased rainfall in the coming months.

Town officials are advising residents to take steps now to protect their homes, prepare for storms and stay safe during periods of heavy rain.

To help reduce potential flooding impacts, sand for sandbags is available while supplies last at Gilbert Fire Station 1, 2730 E. Williams Field Road; Fire Station 3, 1011 E. Guadalupe Road; and Fire Station 9, 3355 E. Ocotillo Road. Residents must bring their own shovels.

Officials also recommend securing loose outdoor items, clearing debris from storm drains and reviewing family emergency plans before storms arrive.

Gilbert residents are urged to use caution when driving during severe weather. Officials recommend avoiding flooded roadways and areas with standing water and finding alternate routes when roads become hazardous.

The town also reminded drivers of the “Pull Aside. Stay Alive.” safety message when visibility becomes too poor to drive safely. Motorists are advised to pull completely off the roadway, set the parking brake, turn off all vehicle lights and remain in their vehicles until conditions improve.

Officials are also warning residents to stay out of stormwater detention and retention basins following storms.

While these areas can fill with water after rain events, they are not intended for recreational use. Stormwater runoff can contain bacteria, chemicals, oil, sediment and other pollutants, while submerged debris and drainage structures can create additional hazards.

Residents are encouraged to keep children and pets away from flooded basins until water levels recede.

The town is also reminding residents to conserve water by turning off irrigation systems before rainstorms. Officials recommend skipping the next irrigation cycle if more than 0.35 inches of rain falls on a property.

The conservation message comes as Gilbert prepares for a reduction in Colorado River water supplies beginning Jan. 1, 2027.

The town also offers rebates of up to $250 for qualifying smart irrigation controllers that automatically adjust watering schedules based on weather conditions.

Residents who encounter storm-related damage, including fallen trees or debris blocking roadways, are encouraged to contact the Gilbert Police Department nonemergency line. Hazards that do not require an immediate response can be reported through Gilbert 311.

Officials also cautioned residents to avoid approaching downed trees or debris that may be in contact with power lines and to report those hazards to the appropriate utility provider.

Gilbert officials are encouraging residents to review emergency plans and prepare for the possibility of severe weather during the upcoming season.