With floodwater receding in the Planada area, Sheriff Vern Warnke has downgraded the Planada evacuation order to an evacuation warning and residents are now able to return to their homes.
Residents returning to Planada are advised to use caution when driving; potholes and residual floodwaters will be present. Residents should also follow any directives from the Planada Community Services District, such as boil notices. Until notified otherwise, residents should consider tap water to be non-potable. Do not drink tap water until notified otherwise, per guidance from the State Water Board.
The Merced County Emergency Operations Center has worked with PG&E and the Planada Community Services District to restore services to the community. For assistance with power restoration/assistance, PG&E customers can call 1-800-743-5000.
The Merced County Department of Public Works has been repairing and fortifying Miles Creek, which breached and caused the initial flooding. With additional storm systems moving inland, flooding remains a possibility in the foreseeable future, so current shelter sites will remain open at this time. Those sites can be located on the Merced County Office of Emergency Services' Perimeter Platform app.
Additionally, residents should avoid walking through floodwater as it could be contaminated and cause infection. Those reentering their homes should be alert to the possibility of mold, particularly black mold, and never sleep in a room that is contaminated with mold.
Any residential wells affected by floodwaters need to be disinfected before they can be safely used again. See more information on well disinfection.
For resources and assistance after a disaster, please visit Assistance (FEMA).
Another storm system could bring additional rainfall through Saturday night, so everyone is asked to continue exercising caution and avoid unnecessary travel.
The Merced County Emergency Operations Center is activated and will remain activated until the current flooding impacts subside.
Additionally, anyone who would like to assist through donations can make financial contributions through the United Way of Merced County at (209) 383-4242 or email Janet Kasper at jkasper@unitedwaymerced.org.
Road closures, shelter sites, evacuation warning areas, and mandatory evacuation areas can be viewed on the Merced County Emergency Operation Center's Perimeter app.
Sandbags will remain available throughout the County. See Sandbag Locations for more information. To sign up for Merced County emergency alerts, visit the Merced County Emergency Notification System webpage. Further details about the current storm system, including alerts and safety information, is available at the National Weather Service’s website listed in the resources below.
Additional Resources: