Free sandbags in Kandiyohi County, MN
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 Kandiyohi County, MN
In June 2025, the City of Willmar offered free sand and sandbags to residents at the Willmar Community Center, 624 US-71 BUS, supplies limited, first-come first-served, bring your own shovel. Kandiyohi County also put sand and a limited number of free sandbags at Big Kandiyohi Lake County Park East, 9144 123rd Ave SE, Lake Lillian. Sites open when flooding threatens; call County Emergency Management at 320-235-5133.
- City of Willmar: sandbagsfacebook.com
- Willmar Radio, reporting Kandiyohi Countywillmarradio.com
Checked against official sources on October 24, 2026.
Free storm alerts for Kandiyohi County
When the National Weather Service issues a flood, fire, wind or hurricane warning for Kandiyohi 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.
Is your home in a flood or fire zone?
Type your address and see your flood, wildfire, earthquake and other hazard risks on one map, free. No sign-up needed.
Get official emergency alerts
Kandiyohi County's official alert system is Kandiyohi County Smart911 notifications. 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 Kandiyohi County, MN?
In June 2025, the City of Willmar offered free sand and sandbags to residents at the Willmar Community Center, 624 US-71 BUS, supplies limited, first-come first-served, bring your own shovel. Kandiyohi County also put sand and a limited number of free sandbags at Big Kandiyohi Lake County Park East, 9144 123rd Ave SE, Lake Lillian. Sites open when flooding threatens; call County Emergency Management at 320-235-5133.
How do I get emergency alerts in Kandiyohi County, MN?
Sign up for Kandiyohi County Smart911 notifications, 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 Kandiyohi County, MN?
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.