BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — About a month ago, Randsburg was struck by what locals described as the worst storm since 1925.
With more rain forecasted, the Mojave Area California Highway Patrol (CHP) is urging residents to stay alert and prepare for possible flooding, even if warnings are not issued.
The town has made significant progress in recovering from the September floods that severely damaged roads and homes.
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“In the last storm last thunderstorms, there were more washouts than what we would normally experience in the desert communities out here,” said Aaron Maurer, public information officer for the Mojave Area CHP.
He advised drivers to avoid crossing flooded roads and highlighted areas with dry washes as particularly prone to flooding.
Randsburg locals are taking proactive measures to protect their town.
Brad Myers, owner of The Vault, expressed concern about the saturated ground, saying, “Even if it’s a small amount, it could make a mess out of things.”
Hollie Shotwell, co-owner of The Joint bar, recalled the previous flooding: “The last time, it was muddy, very muddy. It went all the way. The river came through the building.”
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She noted that residents are setting up barricades and sandbags to prevent floodwaters from entering their properties.
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“We are very nervous,” Shotwell said. “We’ve spent a lot of time to clean up what we just had a few weeks ago and we’re hoping that with all the work that we’ve done, it’s going to help keep the rain out of our businesses and our homes.”