How to prepare for potential flooding this week

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- Starting Tuesday, heavy rains could bring flooding to the Borderland, according to the ABC-7 StormTrack Weather team. A flood watch has been issued for Tuesday into Wednesday.

ABC-7 Chief Meteorologist Doppler Dave Speelman said an additional 1-3 inches of rain could fall. He said heavy rain will be the main concern, with gusty winds and possible hail. The storms could also cause some power outages.

ABC-7 issues First Alerts to help you stay prepared ahead of severe weather changes. One way you can prepare for potential flooding is by acquiring sandbags.

El Paso Water encourages residents to have sandbags on hand before heavy rain begins. El Paso Water gives up to 10 free sandbags per visit to its residential customers. You will need to take a Texas ID or El Paso Water bill to receive a sandbag.

Where to get free sandbags

El Paso Water has several distribution centers for sandbags.

4801 Fred Wilson Ave. in Northeast El Paso. Open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Open from 2-8 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

7830 Paseo Del Norte in West El Paso. Open Monday-Sunday from 2-8 p.m.

9292 Escobar Dr. in Mission Valley. Open Monday-Sunday from 2-8 p.m.

How to use sandbags to prevent flooding

El Paso Water said it takes seven steps to prepare your home for heavy rain:

1. Extend a tarp horizontally in front of your door
2. Use tape to hold the tarp in place against your door
3. Place sandbags horizontally along the tarp and against the entryway
4. Fold the tarp over the final sandbag to hold it in place
5. Fold the long flap of the tarp over the sandbags to get a tight fit
6. Put a second layer of sandbags over the tarp
7. Fold the flap over the final sandbag again