Storm warnings, flash flooding feared with advancing storm

As a winter atmospheric river approaches from the Pacific, the National Weather Service has issued both a wind advisory and a flash flood watch for the Sonoma County region. In anticipation, Sugarloaf Ridge State Park is preemptively closing for Wednesday, while the City of Sonoma and other entities are offering free sandbags to prevent flooding damage.

The high wind warning around coastal areas, with an expected flash flood warning for later tonight, means debris flows, landslides, and flooding may occur, especially in areas affected by the 2020 Glass fire as well as additional areas damaged by earlier fires.

If a flash flood warning is issued, the National Weather Service will send alerts using NOAA Weather Radios, the Emergency Alert System, and the Wireless Emergency Alert system.

The storm itself is expected to bring gusty winds, heavy rainfall and possibly flash flooding. This has caused Sugarloaf Ridge operators from Sonoma Ecology Center to plan a one-day closure of the state park for Wednesday, Feb. 27, in anticipation of safety concerns.

Midday on Tuesday, the City of Sonoma announced the availability of sand and sandbags for residents use in preventing damage from flooding. “If your property has a history of flooding, please don’t wait for the storm to arrive to prepare sandbags,” their website warns.

Free sandbags are available to City residents by appointment. Bag pick-up may be scheduled at City Hall Monday through Thursday between the hours of 8 a.m. to noon, and 1 to 5 p.m. Call (707) 938-3681 for an appointment; limit 10 bags per resident while supplies last.

Additionally, Friedman’s Home Improvement (1360 Broadway) is offering free sandbags to those in need. The first 20 bags are free, additional bags can be purchased separately. The sand is free for sandbag use only for Friedman’s Home Improvement Center customers.

Due to the possibility of wind damage, PG&E asks the residents keep the following safety precautions in mind:

•Never touch downed wires

•Use flashlights, not candles

•Have a backup phone

•Secure outdoor furniture

•Turn off appliances

Some safety officers have suggested residents of those areas find alternate places to stay Tuesday night, during the heaviest rainfall.

Others recommend residents at least have a “go bag” at the ready.

The incoming storm, the wettest of the winter so far, is forecast to deliver an outsized payload in a rain season that has been perilously dry. It comes a week after spring-like temperatures eclipsed heat records over two days, reaching 80 degrees in Santa Rosa.

Fire chiefs also were meeting to discuss what preparations could be made in advance of the storm, while emergency officials laid plans for patrolling burn areas and monitoring stream and water gauges.

Mary Callahan and Kaylee Tornay of the Press Democrat contributed to this report.