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With heavy rains expected over the coming weekend —potentially bringing 2.5 to 3 inches of rain by Monday morning — The San Benito County Office of Emergency Services released a statement to remind residents to keep a weather eye out for hazards.

•    There is a possibility for power outages in some areas of the county.
•    Treat all low-hanging and downed power lines as if they are energized and extremely dangerous.
•    Be aware of downed trees, as they may be hiding other hazards such as downed power lines and may move unexpectedly.
•    During power outages, use battery operated flashlights, and not candles, due to the risk of fire.
•    Urban and small stream flash flooding is possible.  Be aware of flooded intersections, roadways, and streams.  
•    Do not attempt to cross streams or rivers as currents may be stronger than expected.
•    Avoid driving through standing water as it may hide obstacles and be deeper than it appears.
•    Contact 911 for emergencies such as downed power lines, and gas leaks.
•    Register your cell phones with CodeRed to be able to receive emergency notifications from public safety departments.

Sandbags will be available at various sites in San Benito County, including:

1.  Hollister Fire Dept. #2
    1000 Union Road, Hollister

2.  Hollister City Yard
    1321 South Street, Hollister

4.  County Yard
    3220 Southside Road, Hollister

5.  San Juan Bautista City Yard
    Corners of 2nd and San Jose Streets

6.  Aromas Fire Station
    492 Carpenteria Rd.
    Aromas, CA 95004

The San Benito County Office of Emergency Services will continue to monitor the storm and provide information as necessary, Emergency Services Manager Kevin O’Neill said.

Joseph Guevara of the City of San Juan Bautista public works in a Facebook message encouraged locals to keep flashlights at the ready in case of power outages and noted that “walkie talkies would be good also as not to depend on networks that might go down if we lose power.” 

He said to keep “as much water that you can store,” and suggested that residents living in San Juan Canyon and other rural areas “get to know your neighbors and plan on certain places to meet in case of floods or slides.” Guevara added that “those bright yellow or orange safety vests are a must.”

For information from the County Office of Emergency Services, visit its webpage here.

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