Capvideo | In Mission Valley in San Diego, the Fashion Valley mall’s parking lot is flooded | https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Fashion_Valley_mall_flood.JPG | Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license. | https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.en
A recent historic rainfall wreaked havoc in Southcrest and National City, leaving behind unimaginable damage. Residents recount scenes of terror as Chollas Creek overflowed, inundating streets and homes. Clogged and damaged storm drains exacerbated the deluge, leading to widespread destruction. For many, like Greg Montoya, this catastrophe is a recurring nightmare, despite warnings to authorities.
In National City, off Paradise Valley Boulevard and East 8th Street, a strip of homes was completely washed out almost a year later to the day when it suffered another flood. Mayor Todd Gloria, now assessing the devastation firsthand, acknowledges the grim reality: some homes are irreparable losses. The aftermath is a testament to the urgent need for infrastructure improvements and community support.