Sonoma County Officials Urge Residents To Prep For Flash Floods

SONOMA COUNTY, CA — Home owners in Sonoma County affected by the devastating Glass Fire will now need to prepare for more potential disasters — flash floods and landslides. Properties ravaged by the fire are at higher risk for rainfall damage, which could cause mud slides, flowing debris and flooding, county officials warned.

The county announced Friday that property owners were responsible for preventing pollutants, including sediment, from entering storm drains, creeks, rivers and wetlands.

Residents were advised to install erosion control measures such as straw wattles and gravel bags; removing debris near creeks, storms and drainage-ways; and making sure that gutters, catch basins, storm inlets, culverts, or swales are functioning and clear of leaves, sticks, or other debris.

Although the Glass Fire is now 97 percent contained, Sonoma County's landscape is now riddled with debris and ash, which could create flash flood conditions.

Normally, rainfall is absorbed by vegetation and soils, reducing runoff. However, wildfires remove vegetation and may leave soil unable to absorb water.

Such risks can remain for up to five years after a wildfire, until vegetation is restored or replaced, county officials said.

More evacuations could be on the horizon for Sonoma County residents, so officials are recommending that households assemble "go bags" containing important possessions, similar to those recommended for potential fire-related evacuations.

Establishing at least two evacuation routes are also recommended.

For tips and more information on preparing for flash floods and more evacuations, Santa Rosa residents can visit the city's Know Your Ways Out website.

Fore more information and resources related to erosion control, Santa Rosa residents should call 707-543-4649 or go to: the Be Rain Ready website; residents of unincorporated Sonoma County can go to Sonoma County's Be Rain Ready website.

Bay City News contributed to this report.