More rain is headed to Merced County. Here’s what to expect
Heavy rain soaked Merced County as the “coldest storm of the season” swept across California, bringing gusty winds and rolling thunderstorms — and the wet weather isn’t over yet.
More rain, breezy conditions and colder temperatures are expected in Merced County area this week and into the weekend, according to the National Weather Service.
“Although the heavier rainfall have diminished, the cold front and shortwave energy dives southward along the West Coast and will bring renewed rainfall,” the weather agency said in an area forecast discussion on Tuesday, Feb. 17.
Forecasters expect as much as a half-inch of rain in Merced on Thursday.
With additional storms on the way, flooding remains a concern during extended periods of rain, according to the National Weather Service.
Here’s a look at the rest of this week’s forecast:
- Wednesday night: Rain, mainly after 10 p.m., with a low around 40 degrees and winds as high as 20 mph
- Thursday: Rain and chances of thunderstorms. Winds up to 25 mph and rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible. The overnight low will be around 33 degrees.
- Friday, Saturday and Sunday: Partly cloudy with slight chance of rain.
The NWS says thunderstorms could return Monday.
What are flood risks in Merced County?
Flooding can occur when steady rain falls over several days, when intense rain falls in a short time or when debris blocks rivers and streams, causing water to overflow into nearby areas, according to the National Weather Service.
“Flooding is a coast-to-coast threat to the United States and its territories in all months of the year,” the weather agency said..
The Merced County Office of Emergency Services has sandbags available to help with flooding, according to a Facebook post.
The county also warned against driving through flooded streets on another Facebook post. Almost half of flood deaths happen in vehicles, the post said.
How can I prepare for a flood in Merced County?
According to the California Department of Water Resources, you can prepare for flooding by following these three steps:
- Be aware: Check to see if your home is in a flood zone and stay updated on weather alerts.
- Be prepared: Have a flood evacuation plan ready with a prepared emergency evacuation kit and copies of your important documents.
- Take action: Evacuate when you are advised to.
Standard homeowners’ insurance does not cover flood damage. The state department recommends purchasing flood insurance.
To prepare for flooding, ask local officials if your property is in a flood-prone area and learn about flood warning signals and evacuation routes.
Purchase a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration weather radio for alerts. You can also plan evacuation procedures with your household.
What should I pack in my emergency supply kit?
Be ready to survive for three days with an emergency supply kit, which should include:
- A supply of water.
- Non-perishable food and a manual can opener.
- A change of clothes, rain gear and sturdy shoes.
- Blankets or sleeping bags.
- A first aid kit and prescription medications.
- Extra glasses, if needed.
- A battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries.
- Credit cards and cash.
- An extra set of car keys.
- A list of family physicians and key contacts.
- Special items for infants, the elderly or disabled family members.
You can also prepare by storing important documents in a safe location and knowing how to shut off utilities.
You can protect your property by elevating key utilities, installing check valves and sealing basements.
