Preparing For The Storms

Sonora, CA — With cooler weather headed towards the Mother Lode this weekend, officials are urging residents to be ready for the changing conditions.

?Now is the time to be prepared,? says Tuolumne County Deputy Administrator Maureen Frank. ?It has been a mild winter, and I think that many people have put off winterizing their home. They should take advantage of today and tomorrow.?

Frank says that there are a few basic things to remember:

-Make sure that you have emergency supplies such as a batteries, flashlights, a radio, extra water and some food that does not require heating.

-Clear debris from all of the gutters and ditches around your property. If your home is considered flood prone, it is advised to place sandbags out before the storm arrives.

-Make sure that your car has a full tank of gas and that you have an emergency kit, extra clothes and blankets inside.

-Check on elderly family members and neighbors to make sure that they still have heat and electricity.

-Take proper precautions for pets that may be living outdoors.

Light precipitation and heavy winds are expected to arrive late Friday evening and continue through Saturday afternoon. A heavier system will arrive Sunday evening and likely last through Wednesday or Thursday. Snow levels are expected to drop down below 1,500 ft.

Written by BJ Hansen