San Joaquin River at flood stage, some residents ordered to evacuate
MANTECA - The San Joaquin River has reached flood stage in one area of San Joaquin County, causing local residents to evacuate.
The San Joaquin County Sheriff's Office says the flooding is due to a combination of storm runoff, snowmelt, and ongoing rainfall. The situation has led to severe flooding in several areas, including the homes along Airport Court, where you can't even see the streets.
Following the situation, the Sheriff's Office ordered evacuations along the affected areas and Haven Acres Marina. To help those affected, an emergency shelter has been opened at Manteca Senior Center on 295 Cherry Lane.
We spoke with Krystal Gonzales who lives along Airport Court, who had to use a boat to evacuate her and her family from the area on Saturday.
"Usually the river is between 100 and 200 feet behind our backyard," said Gonzales. "In order for us to go to and from work or to and from school we have to ride the boat from the house to the levee."
Officials have stated that while there haven't been any negative impacts on the levees so far, rising water levels could make it difficult for first responders to reach people who refuse to evacuate.
"I am pretty sure it is pretty strong because big rigs come through here all the time to do the crops," Gonzales said.
CBS 13's Tori Apodaca saw one man who chose not to evacuate taking out his trash by boat today. Another couple had their dog on a raft, so he would not have to touch the water.
"The houses are built to take it, it is just a beautiful view," said one evacuee on Airport Court. "It happens when you get to live in the river."
The emergency shelter at the Manteca Senior Center is allowing people to stay with small animals. A spokesperson from Red Cross told CBS 13 there were about a dozen people staying there Sunday night.
The San Joaquin Office of Emergency Services is also storing livestock at the Stockton Fairgrounds. If you need help getting your animals there call: (209) 953-6200.
