Following our recent local storm and flooding events, the County of Humboldt is encouraging residents to actively plan for future storms by preparing their families and property for the possibility of flooding.
It is important for citizens to be self-reliant in these situations. Public agencies typically are not responsible for providing you with materials to protect your private property. A common approach to flood preparation is to make sure you have sand and sand bags on-hand. You can often purchase the necessary items at local hardware and landscape materials stores. Resources for flood fighting, and the safe and effective placement of sandbags may be found through the links below.
Some cities and community services districts may offer sandbags at low or no cost to residents or customers, but that should not replace your own preparedness efforts. The County of Humboldt has stocks of sandbags on-hand specifically to protect public infrastructure, and is not responsible for providing sandbags or other flood fighting materials for private property. The county does not maintain a continually changing local inventory of these materials.
Residents on private roads are responsible for maintenance of culverts. Frequently checking culverts for debris and clearing accumulated vegetation between rain events can help prevent washouts. Residents on shared private roads should work with neighbors to ensure that maintenance is routinely performed, including removal of hanging tree branches that may become a safety hazard.
Please monitor weather conditions and forecasts, and maintain a safe distance from the ocean, rivers, and fast-moving creeks and streams during heavy rain events. Storm surge and high surf can create extremely hazardous conditions on beaches. Enjoy the view from a safe distance and elevation, and never turn your back on the ocean.
USEFUL LINKS
Weather conditions may be monitored on the National Weather Service website, Facebook page, and Twitter account.
River forecasts and levels may be accessed on the California Nevada River Forecast Center’s website, and on the NWS river gauge page.
Flood fighting and sandbag information is available on the Department of Water Resources website.
Alerts and advisories about hazards, conditions, and current emergency information in Humboldt County may be found on the Office of Emergency Services Facebook and Twitter accounts.