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Storm Preparedness Underway in Merced 

March 9, 2023 – Merced Police Department officials reported that the City of Merced is working to clear storm drains, fortify creek banks, and prepare for what is expected to be another major series of storms beginning Friday, March 10, 2023.

In preparation, the City has reactivated its Storm Information Webpage to provide information and updates about local impacts, including flood caution and preparedness information, evacuation warnings, and orders, if necessary. In addition, sandbag supply updates and other storm-related information will also be posted on this site.

Updated: A new sandbag location has been added to Le Grand, found in the link below.
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ia2PMzc2ehC0IfRrirgq8EtN5De19DlTUlKlwfLDkL8/edit?usp=sharing

Updated: For all flooding resources click the link below: 
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1o07b71y1BqEnEWxzz2pb3kNeGLBjctTxYEmyebyTBNk/edit?usp=sharing

Upcoming Storm Outlook – Friday, March 10 through Thursday, March 16

January storms have made areas of our community’s waterways unsafe. The City urges all residents to avoid these waterways and walking paths. Because of ground saturation and erosion from prior storms, expect to see more debris in creek flows. Additionally, take precautions for fallen branches or trees and potential power outages.

The National Weather Service 7-Day Forecast predicts 2 to 3 inches of rain. Bear Creek will reach monitor stage of Friday morning. To monitor creek flows, please visit the California Nevada River Forecast Center.

Localized flooding can be expected on city streets and will result in increased pothole activity. The Public Works Department continues to address issues as they arise.

Do not drive on flooded streets. Obey all traffic, detour, and roadblock signs.

Sandbag Locations

Sandbags are available from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., starting Wednesday, March 8 at The City of Merced Purchasing Building, 2525 O Street (Click here for directions). Please enter from O and 25th Streets. Availability will be on a first come, first-serve basis. Sand to fill sandbags is available at the locations listed below.

Expect to fill and transport your sandbags. Please bring a shovel. Sandbags are heavy. Please be prepared to lift more than 50 pounds. Information regarding how to fill and stack sandbags can be found here.

Merced sandbags

Localized flooding can be expected on city streets and will result in increased pothole activity. The Public Works Department continues to address issues as they arise. 

Do not drive on flooded streets. Obey all traffic, detour, and roadblock signs. 

To prepare for a possible evacuation. 

  • Prepare a family plan and have emergency telephone numbers available.
  • Assemble a disaster supply kit with enough food, water, and other supplies for at least 72 hours. For a complete list, visit, https://www.ready.gov/kit
  • Prepare to relocate to a safe location and share your location with family and friends.
  • Move vehicles off roadways to allow emergency vehicles access and to prevent flood damage. 

If you evacuate: 

  • Gather all family members.
  • Gather all pets.
  • Gather essential items including important documents (insurance policies, identification cards, bank account records, birth certificates, passports)
  • Be sure to bring essential medications with you.
  • Unplug all appliances
  • Move portable appliances and electronics to higher ground
  • Turn off lights in your home
  • Lock your home
  • Move all vehicles off roadways to allow emergency vehicles access and to prevent flood damage 

Stay informed:

Additional Resources: 

  • For emergencies, dial 911
  • For general information, please call: 211
  • For after-hours urgent Public Works matters, please contact police dispatch at (209) 385-6905.
  • Merced County Office of Emergency Services 24-hour Information Line (recording): 209-385-7379
  • Flood Safety Checklist: http://web2.co.merced.ca.us/pdfs/news/2017/Flood-Safety-Checklist.html

Resources

Source: Merced Police Department