Free sandbags in Erie County, NY
Where to get sandbags, how to get official alerts, and how to check your own address before the next storm.
Free sandbags in Erie County, NY
We haven't found a county-wide free sandbag program for Erie County yet. Most counties and cities hand out free sandbags, often at fire stations, public works yards or parks, and many open extra pickup sites when a storm is coming. Call Erie County emergency management or your city's public works department.
Last checked October 24, 2026. We re-check official sources regularly.
Free storm alerts for Erie County
When the National Weather Service issues a flood, fire, wind or hurricane warning for Erie 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 Erie County
26,348 FEMA flood-zone areas mapped across 299 map panels.
MyStormPlan hosts FEMA's flood map data for Erie County (FEMA data as of November 20, 2024), 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
Erie County's official alert system is BUFFALERT (City of Buffalo). 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
How do I get emergency alerts in Erie County, NY?
Sign up for BUFFALERT (City of Buffalo), 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 Erie County, NY?
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.