An active storm system is bringing heavy rain and mountain snow. According to initial forecasts, there is a potential for low-elevation snow next week that could impact holiday travel and plans. 

Now is the time for residents to stay prepared for winter weather. Community members are encouraged to drive safely on wet roads, stock up on essential supplies, and stay tuned to the National Weather Service (NWS) forecast. 

Nevada County Prioritizes Winter Preparedness Training 

Last week, Nevada County Office of Emergency Services (OES) led a winter weather response exercise with more than 70 key participants from across the state. Partner agencies included the American Red Cross, CAL FIRE, Cal OES, California Department of Social Services, Nevada County Public Works, Nevada County Consolidated Fire District, City of Nevada City Office of Emergency Services, FREED, 211, Community Organizations Active in Disaster (COAD), ARES, and local law enforcement agencies. 

“The success of this exercise is a significant benefit to the community. Not only because practice improves competency, but exercises such as this bring the partners and cooperators together to build on one another's trust before an emergency,” said Landon Haack, CAL FIRE assistant chief, Nevada Yuba Placer Unit. 

During the exercise, the Nevada County Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was fully activated to test planning, coordination, and emergency response capabilities.

“The joint EOC training with the County plays a critical role in strengthening our winter preparedness. Severe winter storms test every part of our emergency response system, and training together improves our interoperability and coordination. Exercises like this allow us to identify and address gaps before a real emergency occurs, ensuring we are better prepared to protect our communities and our responders when winter conditions deteriorate,” said Jason Robitaille, Fire Chief Nevada County Consolidated Fire District.

Operational successes included the successful testing of a new field reconnaissance function and the opening of an overnight shelter at the Nevada City Veterans Hall in partnership with the American Red Cross and the California Department of Social Services.

“Our goal with the exercise was to collaborate with local and state agencies to ensure we are prepared to effectively respond to the needs of our community during severe winter weather,” said Paul Cummings, Nevada County Office of Emergency Services program manager. 

Residents are encouraged to take steps now to prepare for winter conditions.

Be Prepared for Rain and Wind 

During heavy rain events, give yourself extra time to drive safely. Report any flooding, mudslides or downed trees on County-maintained roadways at public.works@nevadacountyca.gov or 530-265-1411. Crews are on-call after hours to respond to urgent issues. 

Report downed power lines by calling 9-1-1 and to PG&E at 1-800-743-5000. Never touch or walk in the immediate area of a downed powerline; assume it is energized and extremely dangerous. 

Nevada County Sanitation District customers can report emergent issues 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 530-265-1555. 

Get No-Cost Sand 

Self-serve sand is available to Nevada County residents at no cost. Bring your own shovel and sandbags to one of the four locations in western Nevada County: 

• Penn Valley Fire Protection District located at: 10513 Spenceville Road, Penn Valley, CA 95946 
• Next to the Nevada County Warehouse located at: the corner of Highway 49 and East Broad Street, Nevada City, CA 95959 
• North San Juan Community Hall located at: 10057 Reservoir Street, North San Juan, CA 95960 
• Higgins Fire Department located at: 10106 Combie Road, Auburn, CA 95602 
• Old Corporation Yard located at: located at 10720 Riverview Dr. Truckee, CA 96161 

Sandbags are available for purchase online or at various local businesses or hardware stores, but plan ahead for holiday closures or reduced hours. 

More information is available at ReadyNevadaCounty.org/Sand. 

Ready, Set, Snow! 

There is always the potential for snow in Nevada County this time of year. Be ready with a full propane tank and plan to use fuel sparingly. Heavy storm conditions will delay fuel deliveries. Line up snowplowing services in advance to ensure private driveways and roads remain accessible. For extensive, urgent storm damage cleanup, consider organizing with neighbors for coordinated tree debris removal.

Keep the following vendor contacts on hand for: 

• Emergency Tree Service 
• Propane Service
• Snowplow 
• Telecommunications 
• Firewood 
• Insurance

More information and tips at www.ReadyNevadaCounty.org/WinterPreparedness. ReadyNevadaCounty.org/WinterPreparedness