Farmers, Residents Prep for Weekend Storms

November 30, 2012 Updated Nov 30, 2012 at 7:38 PM PDT

Farmers are grateful for what they're getting with the storm, but the rain could mean extra work for residents.

Cumulative rain totals for the weekend weren't expected to be more than an inch, but at one point today, we saw nearly a quarter of an inch in just one hour.

Farmers welcome it, especially after a dry winter last year.

But they still need more water released.

Ryan Jacobsen, Fresno Co. Farm Bureau: "For our west side farmers, none of this gets fixed, it really doesn't matter what happens up in northern California, as far as rainfall and snow-melt. It really comes down to how we get that water down through the delta without impacting endangered species."

Farmers are only getting a 45% allocation now...

But the Fresno County Farm Bureau says another dry winter would mean devastating consequences.

"Every storm helps. Really, California, one thing that's amazing about it is really 3, 4, 5, 6 different storms make the season."

While the rain is good for the work of farmers, the rain could mean more work for residents.

City crews spent today sweeping streets to prevent flooding around the city.

The city does have a comprehensive drainage system...

But with leaves still falling, city officials say drains could clog easily this weekend.

If a crew can't get out to unclog a drain right away, residents are encouraged to clear out leaves themselves.

Patrick Wiemiller, Public Utilities Dir.: "If they do see some standing water and there's a drain inlet in front of their house, please help us out by cleaning that out if you can, and it'll certainly help out your neighborhood."

To report severe flooding in Fresno, contact City Hall at 621-CITY.

City officials say the rain also means you can save a little money, and shut off your sprinkler systems for the weekend.

That said, the City of Fresno's winter watering schedule does begin tomorrow.

Odd numbered addresses may water on Saturdays only...

And for even numbers, it's only on Sundays...

The hours are not restricted, but officials say to mind your meter.