Vital Central Valley flood control levees are poorly maintained, California watchdog finds

A California state auditor has found that nearly a third of local agencies responsible for maintaining vital flood control levees in the Central Valley have been performing unacceptable routine maintenance, with some failing to meet standards for years. The findings come as the state prepares for an upcoming wet winter.

The audit highlights significant vulnerabilities in the region's flood protection infrastructure, raising concerns about the readiness of local management entities to handle potential severe weather events and associated flood risks.