ATASCADERO — A series of winter storms is heading toward San Luis Obispo County, and the North County is expected to receive up to 9-12 inches of rain this week if the storm stays on its current course. The heaviest rainfall is currently projected to start Tuesday night and continue through Wednesday and Thursday, with showers possible off and on through next week. Click here to view a 10-day forecast. 

If you need sand to fill your sandbags in preparation for the storm, Atascadero Fire Station #1 located at 6005 Lewis Ave. has you covered! Sand is located behind the station. Bring your own shovel and sandbags (which can be purchased at any hardware store).

Floods 

A flood occurs when water covers land that is normally dry. Flooding is very dangerous and can cause injury or death. During a flood, you must evacuate the area. Do not walk, swim or drive through floodwaters. Six inches of moving water can knock you down. One foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.

Driving in Flood Conditions

The following are important points to remember when driving in flood conditions:

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  • Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control and possible stalling. 
  • A foot of water will float many vehicles.
  • Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles, including sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and pick-ups.

Driving in Flood Conditions

The following are important points to remember when driving in flood conditions:

  • Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control and possible stalling. 
  • A foot of water will float many vehicles.
  • Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles, including sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and pick-ups.

Be prepared

Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States. Floods cause more deaths and damage than any other severe weather event. In San Luis Obispo County, flooding most commonly occurs after periods of heavy rain. Our area also has a risk of a levee break or dam failure.

If you are in need of sandbags, you can purchase them here and in large quantities here. Please contact your local fire station or CSD if you are in need of sand. Many locations have sand available for the public to fill sandbags. 

Before the Flood 

  • Know the types of flood risk for your area. Visit the FEMA Flood Map Service Center for more information.
  • Find out if you have flood insurance.
  • Protect your property—clean gutters and drains. Move valuables to higher levels.
  • Identify an evacuation route and safe location.
  • Determine if you live downstream from a dam or in the inundation area for a levee break.

During the Flood

  • Evacuate immediately if told to do so.
  • Listen to Public Alert and Notification systems and media for emergency information.
  • Do not walk, swim or drive through floodwaters.
  • Avoid downed power lines.
  • Do not drive around barricades. Roads and bridges may have washed out.

For more information on how to prepare, visit prepareslo.org