When the clouds start stacking over the ridge and the smell of cold pine hits the air, Nevada County folks know what time it is — storm season. Whether you’re tucked into downtown Nevada City or on a long dirt driveway in North San Juan, prepping before the rain arrives can make all the difference.

This week, the Nevada County Office of Emergency Services announced free self-serve sand available for residents ahead of incoming storms. If you’ve ever had a driveway wash out, watched a culvert overflow, or seen your yard turn to river, you know: a few sandbags now can save you hours (and dollars) later.

Where to Get Free Sand in Nevada County

Bring your own shovel, sandbags, and gloves. Sand is first-come, first-serve.

If you don’t already have sandbags, most hardware stores in Grass Valley, Nevada City, and Penn Valley keep them in stock this time of year.

---

How to Place Sandbags Effectively

A little strategy goes a long way:

Build low and tight, not tall — think beaver dam, not brick wall

Angle bags to redirect water, not block it

Keep doorways and garage thresholds your priority protection zones

Don’t forget rain gutters and diverter trenches — they handle half the work

Need a quick how-to? Get tips here.

---

Reporting Storm Hazards

For downed trees, flooding on county-maintained roads, or blocked drainage:

Road Maintenance: 530-265-1411 After-hours emergencies: Call Sheriff Dispatch

Snow or heavy rain in the forecast? Check live updates here

Storm season isn’t something to panic about — it’s something to prepare for. Nevada County has always been a landscape of rivers, ravines, and ridgelines. Water will go where it wants; our job is to guide it, not fight it.

A few sandbags, a cleared culvert, a shared ride to town — this is how small mountain towns look out for each other.

Stay safe, stay warm, and keep an eye on the sky.

---