Flash floods in Douglas County; Sand bags available in South Lake Tahoe

Douglas County Emergency Management is currently working on managing the storms that are currently passing through Douglas County. Areas of concern are the flood prone areas of the Fish Springs, Johnson Lane, Foothill Road and Topaz Ranch Estates.

Current road closures at this time in Douglas County are East Valley Road near Eldon Way in the Johnson Lane area. Precautions should be taken when driving along roads that have steep embankments alongside such as SR207 Kingsbury Grade for falling rocks and debris.

Crews from the East Fork Fire Protection District, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and the Douglas County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue are patrolling these areas for potential flooding.

Remember, fast moving water can sweep vehicles from the roadways and hide potential danger. Remain clear of all fast moving water. Concerns for the public are the potential for undermined roads, trees and foundations in area where flooding has occurred. Caution should be used when the public is in and around this area. The public should be on the lookout for any hazardous materials such as propane tanks that may have been dislodged during the flood. Should anyone come into contact with an immediate concern about a hazardous material please notify the East Fork Fire Protection District or your utility company that services the issue immediately.

In the City of South Lake Tahoe, free sandbags are available year round from the sand lot located at the City's Street and Snow Removal Yard at 1160 Rufus Allen Blvd.

To pick-up your sand bags, proceed through the gate and drive to the back of the lot. At the back of the lot is a large sand mound, shovels and bags. Residents fill their own bags and transport back to their own residence. Please leave the shovels so that other residents may use and try to limit the number of bags to 10 per visit.

Access to sand bags is available during normal business hours, Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.