MOUNTAIN COMMUNITIES — The National Weather Service in Hanford has issued a Flood Watch for the mountain communities and the surrounding Sierra Foothills. This watch will be effective from Friday, January 31st, at 12:00 p.m. through Sunday, February 2nd, at 4:00 a.m. Consequently, residents should prepare for up to 4 inches of rainfall this weekend, with another storm system forecasted for early next week.
Debris Flow Concerns in Burn Scar
Importantly, officials are closely monitoring the French Fire burn scar, where heavy rain could trigger debris flows. According to the National Weather Service, a moderate risk for debris flow begins Friday at 5:00 p.m. and escalates to a high risk by Saturday at 6:00 a.m. As a result, residents in and around the burn scar areas should remain vigilant and be prepared for potential evacuations if conditions worsen.
Emergency Response & Preparedness
In response to the incoming storm, the Mariposa/Madera County Sheriff’s Office and Office of Emergency Services (OES) are actively monitoring the situation and will provide updates as necessary. Therefore, residents are strongly encouraged to sign up for MSOALERT, Mariposa County’s emergency alert communication system, to receive real-time warnings and critical information. Additionally, Madera County residents can download the “Madera County Sheriff” app in the app store.
- Sign up for MSOALERT: Click here
- Already registered? Ensure your contact information is up to date here.
- Madera County Sheriff App: Apple, Android
Sandbag Locations
To help residents for potential flooding, sandbags are available at the following fire stations in Mariposa County:
- Mormon Bar Fire Station – 4621 Highway 49 South (near the fairgrounds)
- Don Pedro Fire Station (Station 24) – 9729 Merced Falls Rd
- Coulterville Fire Station (Station 26) – 10293 Ferry Rd
- Catheys Valley Fire Station (Station 23) – 2820 Highway 140
- CAL Fire, Rancheria Fire Station: 53488 Road 200
- Madera County Fire:
- 47050 Road 471 (Station 8)
- 35141 Bonadelle Ave (Station 19)
- 48355 Liberty Drive (Station 12)
- US Forest Service:
- Batterson Ranger Station: 43060 Highway 41
- North Fork Ranger Station: 57003 Road 225
⚠️ Reminder: Residents must bring their shovels. While some sandbags may be pre-filled, most will require self-filling.
For a comprehensive list of storm resources and information, visit here.
Stay Updated
With heavy rainfall/snow expected, flooding, debris flow, and road closures may affect local travel. Therefore, officials advise residents to check road conditions before traveling:
- County Road Conditions: Mariposa County Road Information, Madera County Road Information
- CalTrans Highways Road Conditions: Visit CalTrans for live updates on state highways.
- Weather Updates: Stay informed with the latest forecasts from the National Weather Service.
For more information on road conditions, including closures or delays, call CalTrans at (800) 427-7623 or visit here.
Community Urged to Stay Alert
Given the forecast, residents should take necessary precautions by securing outdoor property, clearing drainage areas, and preparing emergency plans. Moreover, authorities stress the importance of staying informed, avoiding flooded roadways, and preparing for potential power outages due to severe weather.
For ongoing updates, follow the Mariposa County Sheriff’s Office , Madera County Sheriff’s Office, and local emergency services.