Residents urged to prepare for flooding, power outages
The National Weather Service is highly confident in the continuation of high winds and heavy rains forecasted for the area through Saturday, Feb. 11, and has offered tips for locals to prepare for the high risk of flooding and the potential for power outages, according to a statement from the Lassen County Office of Emergency Services and the Susanville Fire Department.
“If residents feel their situation warrants an emergency response, call 911. Responders will assess the situation and take appropriate action,” the statement read.
“Residents are highly encouraged to take every opportunity to prepare before Thursday evening. Our region will likely have significant impacts (the likes of which haven’t occurred in over 20 years) beginning early Thursday morning and lasting through Saturday, possibly longer,” according to the statement.
For flooding preparedness, county residents can fill sand bags with sand at various locations, according to the statement.
Sand is available at the following self-serve locations:
Susanville residents
Susanville Fire Department
1505 Main St. Susanville
Lassen County residents
Susan River Fire District
Highway 395/ Johnstonville Rd
Janesville Fire District
Main St/ Sears Road in Janesville
Lassen County Road Department – Standish Yard
Highway 395, in Standish
Lassen County Road Department – Doyle Yard
Doyle Loop
Lassen County Road Department – Bieber Yard
Bridge Street
Lassen County Road Department – Westwood Yard
Highway 36 and A-21
Some things locals can do to prepare include, having a battery-operated or wind-up radio to listen to for storm updates, clearing gutters, drains, culverts and drainages of snow and debris and securing outdoor furniture, trashcans and other items.
Additionally, residents should have supplies ready for a power outage, such as flashlights, rather than candles, batteries, drinking water and non-perishable food.
If the power should go out, if refrigerator and freezer doors are closed, the food should stay good for 24 hours or longer.
The statement warns locals to not use barbecues for indoor cooking or heating.
The agencies advise residents to charge cell phones and to keep a corded phone handy.
If generators are used, the instructions should be followed carefully.
The statement continued that residents should never assume a power line is dead, and they should stay as far away as possible from a down line. They should be immediately reported by calling 911.
Additionally, residents are advised to not to go outside if they do not have to. They should avoid flooded areas and should not cross a flooded road.
