Humboldt County state of emergency declaration could help fund storm response – Times-Standard

State Route 36 was closed due to flooding east of Carlotta on Saturday, but reopened Sunday. Sheriff William Honsal recently declared a state of emergency to help pay for damages. (Courtesy of Caltrans District 1)

On Tuesday afternoon, Humboldt County Sheriff William Honsal said the weekend’s rains damaged roads, flooded culverts, required helicopter rescues, collapsed roads in and around town, and left dozens of residents in rural areas. After being trapped in the village, a state of emergency was declared.

The storm destroyed a portion of Bear Road leading into and out of Redwood Valley, leaving about 50 residents trapped without Pacific Gas and power connections, food or supplies since Saturday. Since then, residents have been in need of medical services and evacuation after being trapped in their homes.

“Anytime someone is trapped and needs medical assistance, like with winter storms, we’re going to find a way to get there. Whether it’s a helicopter or an off-highway vehicle, we’re going to get there.” We will find a way and go to the people,” Honsal said.

Redwood Valley residents said they need gas to run generators and food to get through the emergency. M

Both roads into and out of Redwood Valley are impassable, but Humboldt County Public Works Director Tom Mattson said the goal is to have at least one road open by the end of Wednesday.

Although a formal damage assessment has not yet been completed, Honsal roughly estimates the county faces tens of millions of dollars in damages and will likely need state aid to cover the cost. Dew.

Honsal said that in emergencies where local law enforcement cannot respond immediately, calls for service that are most life-threatening will be prioritized.

“Many of the affected areas, such as the Bear Road suburb, have people who are used to power outages and living in remote areas. So they are hardy, able to take care of themselves and weather the storm. So to speak, but we also wanted to let them know that help is on the way and that the Highway Department is building a safe way back through the slide area,” Honsal said. Told.

Honsal encouraged residents to ensure they have enough food and water to survive for at least three days in the event of an emergency.

Residents can report flooding damage at https://bit.ly/48CTeHs.

Jackson Guilfoil can be reached at 707-441-0506.