Rain, strong winds to arrive in the Modesto area Sunday night. What you can do to prepare
Rain and strong winds are expected to arrive in Modesto on Sunday night, meaning possible power failures, more downed trees and difficult driving conditions, the National Weather Service warns.
The rain — up to half an inch — is expected mostly after 10 p.m., and the winds after midnight: 20 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 43 mph.
The winds could stick around at least through Tuesday. Gusts Monday should be comparable to those Sunday night, and are expected to be weaker — up to 30 mph — on Tuesday.
The weather service puts the chance of rain Sunday night at 90%, increasing to 100% Monday and falling to 80% Monday night. The rain total Monday and Monday night could be nearly 3 inches, the seven-day forecast says.
A flood watch in the Modesto area is in effect until 4 p.m. Wednesday.
The relatively mild weather during the day Sunday provides a chance to get prepared.
The weather service advises securing loose outdoor items, such as patio furniture, umbrellas and garbage bins. It also recommends charging batteries of essential items including cell phones and booster packs, as well as power tools like a reciprocating saw, which you might need to clear debris.
State Farm advises pruning branches that might break off during the storm and either hurt someone or cause damage to your home or vehicles.
The Modesto Irrigation District recommends that if the lights dim or flicker in your home, immediately turn off all electric equipment like TVs and computers. Wait until the power is stable before turning equipment back on.
In the event of a power failure, call MID at 209-526-7337 to report it.
The Turlock Irrigation District asks customers to call 209-883-8301 if a power failure lasts longer than five minutes. “It is recommended that, prior to calling, you cautiously locate your electrical service panel and check to see if the main circuit breaker has flipped to the ‘off’ or ‘trip’ position,” the TID website says.
The government website Ready.gov offers tips for preparing for, and getting through, a power failure. They include:
- Keep freezers and refrigerators closed. Prepare coolers with ice if necessary.
- Do not use a gas stove or oven for heat.
- Disconnect appliances and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges.
- Have alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or using power-dependent medical devices.
- Locate batteries and otherwise prepare flashlights for every household member.
- Use generators, camp stoves or charcoal grills only outdoors and at least 20 feet away from windows. Do not, for instance, try to use a grill to cook in your garage.
Among tips from Pacific Gas & Electric are purchasing battery-powered LED lights or solar lanterns, practicing opening garage doors manually, printing out documents you may need and writing down emergency numbers. It also urges people to check on their neighbors.
This story was originally published January 8, 2023 at 11:15 AM.
