United front: Local agencies work together to educate community on flooding
Regional flooding, unpredictable weather likely throughout northern Nevada
Reno, Nevada (March 5, 2019) — Due to unprecedented precipitation this year and with the National Weather Service Reno (NWS Reno) forecasting more unpredictable weather, including possible flooding from heavy rain and rapid snowmelt, local agencies are working together to prepare. It is advised that residents also prepare for possible heavy rain events, as flooding can occur throughout the region even during the transition from winter to spring.
"It was a cold and snowy February and with snowpack in the Sierra running nearly double the average for early March, concerns for flooding are rightfully on many people's minds,” said Chris Smallcomb, NWS Reno Meteorologist. “March and April can still bring us those warm, heavy rain atmospheric rivers which can combine with melting snow to produce flooding in our region along with substantial rises on lakes.”
How the community can prepare:
Home:
- Check ditches and culverts on or around your property. Remove any debris immediately. Even a small object can cause a backup and overwhelm ditches.
- High winds advisories are likely. It is recommended to secure loose objects.
Roads:
- Travel impacts on area roads could occur. If you must travel, allow for plenty of time and take caution.
- During heavy snow, please be patient and make way for snow plows.
- During a rain event, there may be temporary road closures throughout the region. Please watch out for crews, and DO NOT attempt to drive through standing water.
Safety:
- Plan and prepare. Officials encourage residents to be proactive and plan accordingly for the possibility of snow events, or rising water levels through this winter and spring. If you live in a flood-prone area or have experienced flooding in the past, be on alert.
- Have a kit ready. In the event of another high precipitation year, officials recommend all residents have an emergency kit ready, including special medication on hand in case of a prolonged storm.
Sandbags:
- City of Reno sandbag locations and other flood information
- City of Sparks flood resources
- Washoe County sandbag locations
- Reno-Sparks Indian Colony (RSIC) sandbag locations
Important Resources:
For questions regarding preparations, please contact:
- City of Reno: 775-334-4636 (Reno Direct)
- City of Sparks: 775-353-2300 or 775-353-2231 (after hours)
- Washoe County: Washoe311, 3-1-1 or 775-328-2003
- RSIC: 775-329-2936
For updates on coming weather, please stay tuned through NWS Reno.