Monterey County: Sand bags available to protect from flooding and debris flow

SALINAS, Calif. (KION)

"If you can look uphill from where you are and see a burnt-out area, you are at risk." Monterey County offers this bit of advice as they ask people to prepare for the winter rain.

Between the Dolan, River and Carmel fires, the county says nearly 180,000 acres burned and areas miles away could still be at risk of flooding and debris flow.

"Locations downhill and downstream from burned areas are very susceptible to Flash Flooding and Debris Flows, especially near steep terrain. Rainfall that would normally be absorbed will run off extremely quickly after a wildfire, as burned soil can be as water repellant as pavement. As a result much less rainfall is required to produce a flash flood."

The county calls the fire impact "long lasting" damage to these areas.

They have published a map of where people can pick up sandbags and find sand stockpile areas.

The county is also hosting a "post-fire Winter Storm Preparedness webinar" on November 18th at 5:30 p.m.

You can also find a color-coded map showing the homes, roads and other structures at the most risk of flooding and debris flow.

To sign up for Alert Montrey County: Text your zip code to 888777; or Text “MCWINTER” to 888777.