LAKE COUNTY ? Ongoing rain may flood streams, creeks, roads and low-lying areas this week in Lake County and the rest of Northern California.
The National Weather Service issued a flood and wind warning and a snow warning for elevations above 2,000 feet.
Low water crossings can be dangerous during heavy rain in hilly terrain, the weather service reported.
“Do not attempt to travel across flooded roads,” the weather service advised. “Find alternative routes. It takes only a few inches of swiftly flowing water to carry vehicles away.”
Wind and snow continuing through today in high elevations may create areas of blowing snow and low visibility, according to the weather service.
Pacific Gas & Electric reported three outages Wednesday evening in Clearlake, Cobb and Lucerne due to damaged equipment.
The National Weather Service forecasts rain through Friday with highs in the mid-40s and lows in the mid-30s for Lakeport and Clearlake.
California Highway Patrol responded to a number of crashes Wednesday along with rocks, trees and mud in the road.
In preparation for the incoming storm systems, Lake County Sheriff”s Office Emergency Services has developed staffing patterns to serve the County Emergency Operations Center if needed.
Lake County Public Works and Caltrans have positioned resources to respond in the event of localized flooding.
PG&E has also prepared resources to respond to power outages if needed. The PG&E outage hotline number is 800-743-5002.
Rain may stop Saturday before another weather system brings more rain and mountain snow on Sunday or Monday.
Emergency personnel advise drivers to use extreme caution on the roads, particularly when water is running across the road or puddle. The water may be deeper or running more swiftly than it appears and negotiating such conditions can be dangerous.
People traveling or who have outdoor plans this week can check conditions at weather.gov/sacramento or the NOAA weather radio for the latest weather information.
According to LCSO Emergency Services, the following businesses have sandbags: Rainbow Agricultural Services at 1975 Argonaut Road in Lakeport, 279-0550; Piedmont Lumber at 2465 S. Main St. in Lakeport, 263-8400; Kelseyville Lumber and Supply Co. at 3895 Main St. in Kelseyville, 279-4297; Lake Builders Supply Co. at 3694 E. Highway 20 in Nice, 274-6607; Mendo Mill and Lumber Co. at 5255 Old Highway 53 in Clearlake, 994-1014; Four Corners Building Supply at 14975 Olympic Drive in Clearlake; 994-6277.