Free sandbags in Santa Clara County, CA
Where to get sandbags, how to get official alerts, and how to check your own address before the next storm.
Where to get free sandbags in Santa Clara County, CA
Valley Water gives out free filled sandbags from November 1 through April 15 at sites around the county, and some cities run their own sites. During storms some sites have only sand and empty bags, so bring a shovel.
- Valley Water: sandbag locationsvalleywater.org
Checked against official sources on November 1, 2026.
Free storm alerts for Santa Clara County
When the National Weather Service issues a flood, fire, wind or hurricane warning for Santa Clara County, we email you right away with what to do. We also give you a heads-up a day ahead when NOAA forecasts severe storms or flash-flooding rain.
Want alerts for your exact street instead? Check your address and sign up there.
Flood maps for Santa Clara County
2,726 FEMA flood-zone areas mapped across 187 map panels.
MyStormPlan hosts FEMA's flood map data for Santa Clara County (FEMA data as of January 18, 2026), so you can see the exact zone at your front door in seconds. You'll also see wildfire, earthquake and other hazard layers for your address.
Get official emergency alerts
Santa Clara County's official alert system is AlertSCC. It's free and sends warnings to your phone when a storm, fire or evacuation affects your area.
Before the storm: a quick checklist
- Pick up sandbags early. Supplies run out once a storm is in the forecast.
- Fill bags about halfway and lay them flat, overlapping like bricks, at doorways and the garage door.
- Clear gutters, downspouts and the storm drain in front of your house.
- Move valuables, papers and electronics off the floor.
- Take photos or a video of your rooms and belongings for insurance.
- Never walk or drive through floodwater. Turn around, don't drown.
Questions people ask
Where can I get free sandbags in Santa Clara County, CA?
Valley Water gives out free filled sandbags from November 1 through April 15 at sites around the county, and some cities run their own sites. During storms some sites have only sand and empty bags, so bring a shovel.
How do I get emergency alerts in Santa Clara County, CA?
Sign up for AlertSCC, which is free, and turn on Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone.
How do I know if my home is in a flood zone in Santa Clara County, CA?
Enter your address at mystormplan.com/check to see your FEMA flood zone and other hazards for your exact property, free.
How many sandbags do I need?
A common rule of thumb is about 100 bags to build a wall 1 foot high and 20 feet long. Most homes use sandbags to steer water away from doorways and garage doors. Fill bags only about halfway so they lie flat and tight.
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