LAKE COUNTY — The Lake County Sheriff”s Office of Emergency Services (OES) issued the following public advisory for extreme weather conditions forecasted for the next several days.
The Lake County area will be subject to a potentially severe weather event over the next three to four days as a series of small to moderate storm systems pass through the area with the potential to drop 2 to 4 inches of rain. Intermittent thunderstorms and 20 to 30 mph winds, with up to 40 mph gusts, are predicted for today and Thursday as the storm systems pass over the county.
OES strongly urges the public to avoid any unnecessary travel. As winds and rain increase starting late today or early Thursday, road surfaces may become hazardous and adverse conditions could limit visibility. Those who must drive should use extreme caution. Speeds should be lowered and distances between vehicles should be increased as appropriate. Motorists are encouraged to be equipped with flares, flashlights, cell phone, first aid kit, boots and other extra clothing if they must travel.
With the soil already saturated from previous rains, mud and rock slides are likely and high winds may result in falling trees and power outages.
If generator power becomes necessary, OES urges homeowners to first contact PG&E before starting up as utilizing generators can re-energize power lines and potentially cause serious injury or death to responders and utility workers.
OES offers the following public safety tips for severe storms or other adverse weather conditions: Standing water on roadways can cause a vehicle to hydroplane and a loss of the vehicle”s brake system. Decrease your speed and maintain awareness of your surroundings while driving. Dress appropriately with head and hands covered when going outdoors in temperatures below freezing.
Bring pets inside and provide shelter for farm animals. Have an emergency household supply kit, including non-perishable foods and drinking water stored in bottles or other containers in case water or other utility services are interrupted. Ensure flashlights and battery-powered radios are in good working order and have an ample supply of batteries on hand. Candles and other open-flame light sources are not recommended.
If there is a power outage, do not call 9-1-1. Use a customer service number for information. Customer service numbers to keep on hand are: Sheriff”s Dispatch Non-emergency: 263-2690; PG&E: 800-743-5000; ATT: 6-1-1 or 866-346-1168; American Red Cross: Emergency ? 800-696-3873, local office ? 263-8451. Additional disaster resource information can be found in the local yellow pages of the phone book.
