Bridge over Willow Creek on Road 229A
NORTH FORK — A torrential downpour this morning kept residents on edge as more rain created dangerous conditions for those traveling the roadways in a town that has already had some residents evacuated.
County Roads and CHP officers were busy responding to reports of mudslides and flooded roadways, as Sheriff’s deputies continue to monitor water levels and notify residents in the low-lying areas to be prepared to evacuate if necessary.
Just after 7 a.m., heavy rains moved through the area, accompanied by thunder and lightning, causing some roads to be several inches deep in water, and creating creeks and waterfalls where none should be.
On Old Central Camp Road, the north fork of Willow Creek has flooded the area near the bridge and is washing across the road.
Some homeowners were out with shovels along Road 225 east of town this morning, doing their best to divert the water off their driveways.
Several spots along this stretch of road were covered in mud as newly created creeks deposited what used to be part of someone’s driveway onto the pavement.
A truck from County Roads was out patrolling Road 225, pushing mud and rocks out of the way with each new debris slide.
At about 1 a.m. this morning, the Sheriff’s Office issued a mandatory evacuation for the east side of Church Street and the Bass Lake Mobile Home Park as rising water threatened dwellings.
Sheriff’s deputies staged in those areas to protect property and ensure the public safety.
As of 8 a.m., Commander Tyson Pogue is not anticipating any further evacuations immediately, however conditions can change rapidly and all residents are advised to be prepared if they are ordered to evacuate. For a list of areas under an evacuation warning, click here.
