City shares safety tips for upcoming stormy weather
Over two inches of rain expected today and into tomorrow
– A rainstorm is being predicted for the first part of this week, with the potential for heavy winds and rain. Residents are being advised to take extra care while driving, and to watch for flooded streets as well as for possible downed limbs and trees.
Flooding and downed limbs or trees in the streets may be reported by calling the Atascadero Public Works Department during regular weekday business hours at (805) 470-3148; or police dispatch at (805) 461-5051 anytime. Residents should always call 911 if the situation is an emergency, such as a blocked road or downed power line.
Be ready for possible storm related power outages by checking flashlight batteries and making sure to have plenty of non-perishable food and water on hand.
To help alleviate possible residential flooding situations, empty sandbags may be purchased by residents at local hardware stores such as Home Depot and Miner’s; sand to fill your own sandbags is available at Fire Station #1, located on the corner of Lewis Avenue and Traffic Way, but be sure to bring a shovel.
If you must travel in the wet weather, the Atascadero Police Department advises extra caution. Remember that roadways may be extra slick with the first rainfall. The physics of hydroplaning happen regardless how new your vehicle or tires may be.
If your vehicle feels light and starts to hydroplane, ease off the accelerator, slow down gradually and maintain steering control without making any sudden turning movements. Inevitably, your visibility and reaction times will be reduced because of water on the windscreen, reflections off the roadway, and low light conditions. Be sure to turn on your headlights, slow down, increase stopping distance and leave twice as much space as normally required between you and the car ahead.
Click here to view a weather forecast for Atascadero.
