A powerful winter storm is expected to impact Nevada County next week, bringing hazardous travel conditions, possible foothill snow and the potential for widespread power outages.
Snow is expected in the mountains, with accumulation possible down to 3,000 feet. Forecasts remain uncertain, but snow levels could drop to 1,000–2,000 feet on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Significant mountain snowfall could create major holiday travel impacts over the passes, while high winds and heavy rain in the foothills may lead to downed trees and additional outages.
Residents are encouraged to use the weekend to prepare ahead of the incoming storm and monitor trusted weather sources for updates.
No-Cost Sand
Self-serve sand to help mitigate localized flooding 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:
- Nevada County Warehouse: Corner of Highway 49 and East Broad Street, Nevada City, CA 95959
- Penn Valley Fire Protection District: 10513 Spenceville Road, Penn Valley, CA 95946
- North San Juan Community Hall: 10057 Reservoir Street, North San Juan, CA 95960
- Higgins Fire Department: 10106 Combie Road, Auburn, CA 95602
Sandbags are available for purchase online or at various local businesses or hardware stores. More information is available at www.ReadyNevadaCounty.org/Sand.
Report Road Hazards or Utility Emergencies
Drive safely and 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.
Nevada County Sanitation District customers can report emergent issues 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 530-265-1555.
Report downed power lines by calling 9-1-1 and to PG&E at 1-800-743-5000 or to Truckee Public Utility District at 530-587-3896. Never touch or walk in the immediate area of a downed powerline; assume it is energized and extremely dangerous.
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:
- Propane Service
- Emergency Tree Service
- Snow Plow
- Telecommunications
- Firewood
- Insurance
More information and tips at www.ReadyNevadaCounty.org/WinterPreparedness.