Free sandbags in Merced County, CA
Where to get sandbags, how to get official alerts, and how to check your own address before the next storm.
Where to get free sandbags in Merced County, CA
Merced County posts sandbag locations when storms threaten (its 2024-25 list included County Public Works, 2165 W. Wardrobe Ave, open 24/7 in extreme weather; bring a shovel). The City of Merced offers free self-serve sand at sites it activates during flood risk but does not regularly provide filled bags. Info line (209) 385-7379.
- Merced County: flood resources and sandbag locationscountyofmerced.com
- City of Merced: wet weather resourcescityofmerced.gov
Checked against official sources on October 24, 2026.
Free storm alerts for Merced County
When the National Weather Service issues a flood, fire, wind or hurricane warning for Merced County, we email you right away with what to do. We also give you a heads-up a day ahead when NOAA forecasts severe storms or flash-flooding rain.
Want alerts for your exact street instead? Check your address and sign up there.
Flood maps for Merced County
792 FEMA flood-zone areas mapped across 65 map panels.
MyStormPlan hosts FEMA's flood map data for Merced County (FEMA data as of October 4, 2022), so you can see the exact zone at your front door in seconds. You'll also see wildfire, earthquake and other hazard layers for your address.
Get official emergency alerts
Merced County's official alert system is Merced County Emergency Notification System. It's free and sends warnings to your phone when a storm, fire or evacuation affects your area.
Before the storm: a quick checklist
- Pick up sandbags early. Supplies run out once a storm is in the forecast.
- Fill bags about halfway and lay them flat, overlapping like bricks, at doorways and the garage door.
- Clear gutters, downspouts and the storm drain in front of your house.
- Move valuables, papers and electronics off the floor.
- Take photos or a video of your rooms and belongings for insurance.
- Never walk or drive through floodwater. Turn around, don't drown.
Questions people ask
Where can I get free sandbags in Merced County, CA?
Merced County posts sandbag locations when storms threaten (its 2024-25 list included County Public Works, 2165 W. Wardrobe Ave, open 24/7 in extreme weather; bring a shovel). The City of Merced offers free self-serve sand at sites it activates during flood risk but does not regularly provide filled bags. Info line (209) 385-7379.
How do I get emergency alerts in Merced County, CA?
Sign up for Merced County Emergency Notification System, which is free, and turn on Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone.
How do I know if my home is in a flood zone in Merced County, CA?
Enter your address at mystormplan.com/check to see your FEMA flood zone and other hazards for your exact property, free.
How many sandbags do I need?
A common rule of thumb is about 100 bags to build a wall 1 foot high and 20 feet long. Most homes use sandbags to steer water away from doorways and garage doors. Fill bags only about halfway so they lie flat and tight.
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