Authorities in Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County have declared a state of emergency due to expected local flooding and wind events in our area.
“This morning, the National Weather Service issued a flood warning for the Truckee River area and Susanville,” said Aaron Kenneston, Washoe County Emergency Manager. “We are joining forces with our regional partners to declare a state of emergency in Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County in order to access state resources that can help us maintain public safety as we deal with the impact of this 25-year flood. Those resources include the Nevada National Guard, the Division of Forestry, and other agencies that specialize in emergency disaster management and relief.”
Emergency workers will remain on staff throughout the weekend, working with the National Weather Service to monitor potentially dangerous high winds on Saturday, and localized flooding on Sunday that could become serious in some areas. Residents of the Truckee Meadows are advised to take precautionary measures to deal with wind, heavy rain, flooding, and possible power outages.
Reno, Sparks, and Washoe County have set up more than 40 sand bag locations where residents may fill and pick up sand bags to protect their property. Anyone in need of sand bags is advised to bring a shovel to one of those locations this weekend. Residents are also advised to ensure they have access to flashlights, food and water, medications, batteries, and other emergency supplies throughout the weekend in case of power outages.
For a complete list of sand bag locations, information about emergency kits, and links to related websites, please visit www.floodawareness.com This website will be updated as necessary through the weekend as the situation develops.
