Lake County 2023 January Storm Update
LAKE COUNTY, CA (January 10, 2023) – Heavy rainfall, strong winds and flooding continue to impact the entire State of California. Locally, periods of light to heavy rainfall are forecast to continue through the weekend. Because the ground is saturated, even light rainfall increases the risk of flooding, landslides, downed trees and power poles. Impacts to road conditions and utility services are expected to continue intermittently.
It Takes a Village
Crews from Lake County Department of Public Works, Special Districts, Sheriff’s Office, Northshore, Lake County, South Lake County, Kelseyville, and Lakeport Fire Protection Districts, CalFire, PG&E, Caltrans, and other utility providers continue to respond 24/7 to maintain Lake County infrastructure and safety. During peak storm periods, response may not be immediate while crews are called out to multiple locations at one time.
Individual, family and community safety and resilience rely on the actions of all Lake County residents.
During non-rain periods, prepare for the next "round" or storm by:
- Clearing gutters, ditches and other drainage areas in your yard/property.
- Fueling vehicles.
- Stocking up on groceries and other supplies that may become a necessity if flooding or power outages occur.
- Checking on family and neighbors.
During periods of rain and wind:
- Only travel if necessary.
- Keep phones charged.
- Check on family/neighbors.
- Bring pets inside.
At all times:
- Do not drive around road closure signs or through standing water.
- Stay away from moving water (including near bridges, streams or flooded areas).
- Use generators, electric heaters and other electric equipment safely.
- Inspect for leaks; turn off electricity and consult an electrician if water reaches wiring.
- Share only accurate, verified information from a trusted source and don’t spread rumors.
Stay Informed
Emergencies, potential disasters and disasters impact the entire community. Wrong information can cause stress that is unnecessary. Sign-up for County emergency notifications from the Lake County Sheriff’s Office by visiting www.lakesheriff.com.
On Facebook, follow Lake Sheriff, Lake County OES and Lake County Department of Public Works - California for ongoing information. Caltrans’ QuickMap is a website and mobile app for accessing highway information. Lake County OES pinned a post to their Facebook page with other helpful pages to follow for ongoing information.
Outlook
National Weather Service-Eureka reports that Lake County observed 6 to 8 inches of rainfall with some higher totals in the surrounding mountains around 10 to 15 inches since January 3, 2023. While this is much needed and a good step in the right direction, it is too soon to estimate or determine an end to the drought. The National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center anticipates that the drought while conditions will improve, the drought will persist through March 31, 2023. OES will continue to monitor and coordinate with local, state, and federal agencies to respond to this winter weather event as it evolves.
Questions can be emailed to lakesheriffoes@lakecountyca.gov.
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