Nevada City, CA – A strong atmospheric river is forecasted Tuesday night into the weekend, with the heaviest rain and snow currently expected Wednesday causing ponding water on roadways, down tree branches and difficult driving conditions.
County road crews are readying equipment. Help keep roadways safe by reporting downed trees, issues on County maintained roadways, or wastewater issues at public.works@nevadacountyca.gov or by calling 530-265-1411. Report downed power lines by calling 9-1-1 and to PG&E at 1-800-743-5000 or to Truckee Public Utility District at (530) 587-3896. Never touch or walk in the immediate area of a downed powerline; assume it is energized and extremely dangerous.
Take advantage of the dry conditions to prepare.
How to Prepare
Prepare Your Property
- Review the safety guidelines in your generator’s operation manual.
- In the foothills, prepare for the rain by clearing gutters or storm drains and picking up sandbags at a local hardware store to stock up on free sand available at four locations. Sand is available at a first-come, first-serve basis. Don’t forget to bring a shovel.
- If in higher elevations, create a plan for snow removal on private driveways or roadways. Consider where to park your vehicle so you can get to town easily, but please don’t park a vehicle where it would obstruct County snowplow operations.
Prepare Yourself
- Monitor the forecast and stay tuned to trusted news sources. Weather forecasts change, but the current storm is forecasted to have extreme impacts throughout our region.
- Winterize your vehicle: check tires, wiper blades, fluids and lights. Carry chains if you plan to travel in the mountains.
- Fuel up vehicles and generators, and stock up on extra fuel for equipment such as snow blowers and chainsaws.
- Plan for your heat source. Fill up propane tanks if you have a permanent generator, and stock up on dry firewood if you have a wood stove. Have a plan for where (and how) you will go if your home becomes too cold during a winter storm power outage.
- Charge your devices, including battery packs, cell phones, and tablets, and have flashlights, candles, batteries, headlamps, and lanterns ready.
- Stock up on shelf-stable groceries, including water, pet food, and nonperishables.
- Make sure you have a supply of any prescription medication. If you use life-sustaining medical devices, please contact FREED at (530) 477-3333 if you need support.
Check on Others
Look out for one another. Check on neighbors, family, and friends before and during storm events who may need an extra hand in harsher conditions. Your neighbors can be your greatest resource during a storm!
Find more winter preparedness tips at www.ReadyNevadaCounty.org/WinterPreparedness.Call 1-833-DIAL211 to connect with local resources. If it’s an emergency, please call 9-1-1.