A coordinated, multi-agency response team comprised of CAL FIRE’s Nevada-Yuba-Placer Unit (NEU), Nevada County Consolidated (NCC) Fire, Grass Valley Fire Department and County Public Works crews is clearing downed trees from roads and power lines in hard-hit areas such as Idaho Maryland Road, Banner Mountain and Cascade Shores. The County’s Office of Emergency Services (OES) and Public Works are coordinating the overall response and supporting field operations.
These areas have seen several feet of snow this week, along with additional tree damage caused by heavy snow loads and below-freezing temperatures overnight.
“Many residents have been without power for several days under heavy snow,” said Board of Supervisors Chair Lisa Swarthout. “We are grateful to our crews and fire agencies for their commitment and teamwork in tackling storm damage as quickly as possible. Please continue to check on neighbors and report hazards so emergency responders can reach those in need.”
Since the storm began Tuesday, County crews have responded to over 60 reports of downed trees into the road or powerlines due to the storm.
When the peak of the storm hit Thursday, more than 7,000 PG&E customers in Nevada County were without power. All schools, government buildings and numerous local businesses were closed as snow levels dropped as low as Penn Valley and Lake of the Pines
County and task force crews are actively supporting PG&E restoration efforts by clearing downed trees and ensuring road access. These teams have been working around the clock to keep the 560 miles of County-maintained roads clear. Plowing and tree removal operations are focused first on primary routes, then County-maintained neighborhood roads as conditions allow.
Nevada County Consolidated Fire’s task force includes six additional fire engines and 20 firefighters from Ophir Hill Fire, Peardale Chicago Park Fire, North San Juan Fire, Grass Valley Fire Department, Higgins Fire Protection District and Nevada County Consolidated Fire.
Nevada County’s Office of Emergency Services (OES) is supporting the task force deployment. “Through close collaboration with Nevada County OES, CAL FIRE firefighters are clearing downed trees to maintain open roadways, enabling swift emergency response and protecting our community,” said CAL FIRE Assistant Chief Haack.
During regular work hours, report downed trees or issues on County-maintained roadways to Nevada County Public Works at 530-265-1411. Report down power lines, urgent after-hour or weekend incidents to 9-1-1.
Dial 2-1-1 to reach a local Connecting Point specialist. 2-1-1 can help connect residents to shelter, food, warming locations and other storm resources. Find additional storm updates and information at NevadaCountyCA.gov.