The Rain is Coming; Here are Driving Tips and Sandbag Locations

As heavy rain forecasts loom, emergency management officials are stepping up measures to ensure people’s safety on the roads and protect their homes.(source)

Driving in such bad weather conditions can be dangerous. Thus, here are some useful tips for drivers to consider during periods of heavy rainfall. The primary advice is to slow down. It takes longer to stop or adjust on wet pavement, necessitating a decrease in speed. In addition to slowing down, it’s important to ensure that your headlights are on, even during the day. The ability to see and be seen is crucial for safety, and having your headlights on increases your visibility to other drivers.

Further, maintaining a safe distance from the car in front is highly recommended. With slick roads, stopping distances can increase. Using your vehicle’s defroster can assist in maintaining visibility, as foggy windows can further hamper your field of vision. It is always advisable to avoid driving through flooded areas since just six inches of water can lead to a loss of control and potential stalling of a car. However, if crossing water cannot be avoided, it is advised to drive slowly, apply the brakes lightly to dry them off, and test the brakes after crossing water to ensure they are working properly.

For homeowners concerned about the risk of flooding, there are some locations where sandbags are available to protect against this hazard. The City of Sacramento, for instance, provides sandbags at multiple locations throughout the city. The sites include the City Corporation Yard, Garcia Bend Park, The Water Sports Center, and Sacramento Marina. Additionally, local fire stations have a limited supply of sandbags that residents can avail themselves of.

The City encourages residents to bring their own shovel for filling sandbags during peak periods of demand. In the event of a severe storm, more sand may be made available at additional locations. The use of sandbags can be a helpful tool in redirecting stormwater and debris flow away from homes and other important structures.

As the rainfall continues, authorities are advising individuals to stay tuned to local forecasts and emergency channels for updates on the developing weather situation, ensuring they can make informed decisions for their own safety and that of their properties.