Explore Palm Springs: Flood of January 1969

Over 3-day period, more than 3 inches of rain fell

Nicolette Wenzell History

 

In January of 1969, a rather substantial downpour struck Palm Springs.

During a period of just three days, more than 3.25 inches of rain flooded the streets and homes of Palm Springs.

Over the course of the rainfall, Tahquitz Creek became increasingly full, climaxing with the flooding of three streets; Sunrise Way, Farrell Drive, and El Cielo Road.

The fast moving, powerful waters washed away the pavement and these main roads remained closed until repaving could be completed.  Some of the hardest hit neighborhoods were in the Deep Well, Canyon Country Club, and Calle Palo Fierro areas.

The Dream Homes neighborhood, located just east of Gene Autry Trail, was substantially flooded when the Whitewater River dike failed. The American Red Cross and many other volunteer organizations lent their hands in assisting Palm Springs residents affected by the flooding.

There is a multitude of ways to learn more about Palm Springs, which turned 75 in 2013. One of the more intriguing methods is by exploring the city’s history.

The Palm Springs Historical Society will share a weekly story whose time and place corresponds with today.

The Palm Springs Historical is located at 221 S. Palm Canyon Drive. For more information, visit www.pshistoricalsociety.org

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