COLUSA, CA (MPG) — Colusa County has opened multiple sandbag and sand pickup locations to help residents and business owners prepare for potential flooding.
The Colusa County Department of Public Works announced the distribution sites on Dec. 18 as part of seasonal flood preparedness operations. Materials are available on a first come, first served basis.
Sandbags and sand are available at the following locations: Arbuckle, the County Road Yard at 702 Second St. operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week; Colusa, the County Road Yard at 717 D St. is also open 24 hours a day, seven days a week; Grimes, materials are available at the Sacramento River Fire District Grand Island Station, 355 Main St., 24 hours a day, seven days a week; Maxwell, the County Road Yard at 211 Railroad Ave. operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week; Princeton, sandbags are available at the Princeton Fire Department, 342 Winter St.; Williams, the County Road Yard at 5714 E St. is open from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sandbags are also available at the Williams Fire Department, 810 E St., 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
The Department of Public Works plans to restock distribution sites as materials become available. Residents should bring their own shovels, as filling equipment may not be available at all locations.
Flood prevention measures commonly used by property owners include placing sandbags around doorways, garage openings, and low entry points, with bags stacked in a staggered pattern and packed tightly to reduce water seepage. Plastic sheeting placed beneath sandbags can add another layer of protection.
Additional steps often taken during flood conditions include clearing debris from gutters, downspouts, and storm drains, elevating furniture and appliances where flooding is imminent, and relocating important documents to higher levels or store in waterproof containers.
Motorists are advised to avoid flooded roads, as water depth and road conditions can change quickly. Even shallow water can conceal washouts or strong currents. Monitoring weather forecasts and river levels can help residents stay aware of changing conditions.
Residents needing assistance or after hours access in specific areas may contact their local fire department. For general questions regarding sandbag availability, residents may contact the Colusa County Department of Public Works.