A series of Pacific storms are expected to hit the Bay Area this week, bringing between 2 and 4 inches of rain. The rainfall is expected to begin Wednesday night and continue into Thursday.

Benicia city officials are urging residents to be prepared, as the storms are arriving in conjunction with relatively high tides.

“As we’ve seen the past, because we are at sea level, unusually high tides have a tendency to limit the outflow of storm water to the bay,” the city wrote on its website. “This can be a significant issue when it aligns with heavier rains, causing flooding.”

Homeowners and residents are encouraged to clear the drains on their properties, assure that sump pumps are working and remove all leaves and debris.

Residents are also asked to remain cautious on the roads. For information on current traffic incidents, visit cad.chp.ca.gov and use the drop down menu to select Golden Gate or Sacramento, depending on where you are going.

Also, gustier winds increase the risk of downed trees and power outages. The city has said the police, fire, Public Works and Parks & Community Services departments will be on hand day and night to provide services during the storm.

The city is also recommending that residents sign up for Alert Benicia at AlertBenicia.org to be able to communicate with the city, including the police and fire departments, on emergency and disaster issues. For more information on current weather issues, locations to fill sandbags, storm drain maintenance, flood zones and other information, visit ci.benicia.ca.us/index.asp?SEC=DA68E706-913C-400D-BAC3-DBF304615B8C&Type=B_BASIC.

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