Fresno Crews Prepare for Powerful Storms

Public works and fire departments ready for heavy rain, wind, and flooding

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

City of Fresno crews are working hard to prepare for the next few days of heavy rain and powerful winds slamming the Central Valley. The public works department has been clearing drains, checking pumps, and trimming trees to get ready. The fire department is also bracing for an increase in weather-related emergencies like downed power lines and traffic accidents. Residents are encouraged to keep their gutters and property clear of debris to prevent flooding.

Why it matters

Fresno is no stranger to intense winter storms, and the city's preparation efforts are crucial to minimizing damage and disruption to the community. By proactively addressing potential issues, the public works and fire departments can better respond to emergencies and keep residents safe.

The details

The public works department has already responded to a few downed trees, with the main focus on Tuesday being filling potholes, clearing drains, and getting ready for the next storm. The fire department has already responded to 20 calls for downed power lines, compared to 95 calls last year. They are encouraging residents to slow down on the roads and keep their gutters and property clear of debris to prevent flooding.

  • On Monday, crews responded to a few downed trees, including one in southwest Fresno that fell across a roadway.
  • On Tuesday, the public works department had about two dozen staff out filling potholes, clearing drains, and preparing for the next storm.

The players

Scott Mozier

The Public Works Director for the City of Fresno, overseeing the city's preparation efforts.

Joshua Sellers

A representative from the Fresno Fire Department, discussing the increase in weather-related emergencies.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We only had a small number of calls due to the advance clearing of drains, checking up pumps and even trees that had been trimmed. So, we did have a few trees that were down [Monday]. Our crews responded very quickly.”

— Scott Mozier, Public Works Director, City of Fresno (KSEE/KGPE)

“Winter-related storms like this do generate different types of emergencies for us. Whether or not it's a traffic-related accident based on wet road conditions, we generally see increased traffic accidents. We also see other kinds of emergencies like downed trees that sometimes bring down power lines, flooding issues as roadways become flooded and people continue to try to traverse the roadways.”

— Joshua Sellers, Fresno Fire Department (KSEE/KGPE)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.