Proclamation made in response to risks posed by flooding 

Merced, CA – Following the governor's declaration of a State of Emergency and Merced County's declaration of a local emergency, the City of Merced issued an Emergency Declaration as it prepares for the potential impact of the upcoming storm. 

The National Weather Service has forecasted significant rain and winds in the region within the next four days. The storms are anticipated to result in flooding, mudslides, downed trees, and power outages.  Current Bear Creek flows are projected to be well above historic levels of 24 feet from 2006.  Residents are encouraged to monitor projections provided by the National Weather Service at: https://www.cnrfc.noaa.gov/graphicalRVF.php?id=MEEC1.  

"The state of emergency proclamation authorizes the City to mobilize and take appropriate measures to support emergency response operations to ensure the safety of residents and businesses within the city's jurisdiction," stated City Manager Stephanie Dietz. 

"A coordinated response with Merced County and Merced Irrigation District is critical to prioritize public safety, especially for those who reside in areas more prone to flooding," said City of Merced Fire Chief Derek Parker. 

Additionally, we ask residents to avoid flooded roads, stay out of the creek waters and detention basins, and follow all emergency signage. The focus of emergency responders should remain on prevention during these critical hours," concluded Parker. 

To prepare for the upcoming storm, residents should take advantage of this break to evaluate their homes for hazards, locate and acquire sandbags as needed, and monitor local impacts through various state and local sources. Emergency response will focus on preserving life, then property and the environment.  Hazards that occur during the storm will be mitigated using these priority factors.

The Emergency Declaration will be presented to the City Council for ratification at the Tuesday, January 17, 2023, City Council meeting.

To stay informed, residents are encouraged to register for Subscribe Merced at https://www.cityofmerced.org/resident-services/subscribe-merced 

Additional Resources: 

• For emergencies, dial 911—For general information, please call: 211
• Merced County Office of Emergency Services 24-hour Information Line (recording): 209-385-7379
• National Weather Service: www.weather.gov
• Flood Safety Checklist: http://web2.co.merced.ca.us/pdfs/news/2017/Flood-Safety-Checklist.html
• City of Merced Street Closures and Storm information:https://www.cityofmerced.org/departments/public-works/flood-storm-information
• Merced County Road Closures (unincorporated area): www.countyofmerced.com/roadclosuresFollow "Merced County" and the "Merced County Office of Emergency Services" on social media for future updates
• For after-hours urgent Public Works matters, please contact police dispatch at(209) 385-6905.