Don’t be fooled by April: Washoe County urges residents to prepare for wet weekend weather

Despite spring season, heavy rainfall and strong winds expected

Reno, Nevada. April 5, 2017. The Reno National Weather Service is forecasting an atmospheric river landfall with an unusual late season heavy precipitation storm Friday into early Saturday.

According to Chris Smallcomb, warning coordination meteorologist, Reno National Weather Service, the concern is that residents assume we are past this type of weather, “the public thinks it’s spring now and may not be as prepared,” says Smallcomb.

Area ditches, streams and drainage ways could experience localized flooding due to current conditions. Residents living near these areas should see a list of sandbag locations listed below. Residents with questions or concerns should call 3-1-1 or 775-328-2003. Washoe County crews will be dispatched throughout the storm period and will focus on keeping roadways safe.

"If your area saw flooding with the January or February storms from creeks, streams, or poor drainage, it is likely that you will experience some level of renewed flooding with Friday's storm”, says Smallcomb. “While it is too soon to know the potential severity of flooding, use what occurred over the winter as a guide for preparedness. As of now we do not expect flooding from the main Truckee River although flows will be elevated and water running fast."

The following is a list of sandbag locations:

• Washoe County Operations Yard, 3101 Longley Lane, Reno
• Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District Station #30 at 3905 Old Hwy 395, Washoe Valley
• Gander Lane and Eastlake Blvd., in Washoe Valley
• Paddlewheel and Andrew Lane in Pleasant Valley
• Toll Road and Geiger Grade
• Hidden Valley Fire Station, 3255 W Hidden Valley Dr., Reno, NV 89502
• Pompe Way and Lemmon Dr. in Lemmon Valley
• Lemmon Valley Park 325 W. Patrician in Lemmon Valley
• Blue Heron/Warrior Lane in Belli Ranch Area

In addition to sandbags, residents also should be prepared for strong winds and are urged to:

• Be especially mindful of loose outdoor objects
• Secure temporary/construction structures, canopies and weakened trees
  
  

For video instructions on how to sandbag your property go here:  http://bit.ly/2oE8UYe