BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — The Kern County Fire Department has issued an evacuation order for multiple areas in the Kern River Valley as a storm brings heavy rains to mountain communities.
The evacuation order has been issued for Riverkern, low-lying areas of Kernville, in Tillie Creek Evans Road south to Old State Road between Wofford Boulevard to Arnold Springs Drive, and in Wofford Heights east of Arnold Spring Spur Drive, south of Wofford Heights Boulevard, north of Old State Road, county officials said.
Kern County officials said water flow has become a threat to areas near Wofford Heights and residents should leave immediately and seek shelter.
The following areas are expected to be impacted:
-South of Riverkern, between Sierra Way
-Burlando Road, North of the Kernville Airport.
-Tillie Creek and Wofford Heights, East of Arnold Spring Spur Drive
-South of Wofford Heights Boulevard, North of Old State Road
An evacuation order declares that water flow is a threat to life and/or property, and all residents are advised to leave the area. An evacuation order will likely be the last order given, officials said.
The best travel route from the evacuation areas is Sierra Way to Highway 178 to Lake Isabella, according to a tweet from the Kern County Sheriff’s Office.
Evacuation centers:
There is now one evacuation center open for residents in the Kern River Valley. The shelter is open at Kern Valley High School located at 3340 Erskine Creek Road in Lake Isabella. Animal Services will be on site to assist with sheltering companion animals at the shelter.
County officials said a the shelter at the Elks Lodge is now closed.
Evacuation transportation assistance for residents with physical limitations will be offered until 12 p.m. Saturday. KCSO cannot guarantee assistance will be offered after that time.
Pets:
If you are evacuating with a small pet you can seek shelter at Kern Valley High School and supplies will be available temporarily, according to Kern County Animal Services.
If you are seeking shelter with larger pets you can go to the Ridgecrest Fairgrounds, animal services said. At the fairgrounds, they have 20 stalls available for temporary housing. Before heading to Ridgecrest Fairgrounds call 661-932-1554 to ensure accessibility.
The Kern County Fairgrounds will also have availability for temporary large animal evacuation. The Kern County Fairgrounds will have as many as 60 stalls. Calls should be made in advance to 661-805-0066.
To sign up for emergency alerts, visit Kerncountyfire.org or Readykern.com
