LAKEPORT, Calif. – The National Weather Service is reporting severe storms will hit the county and the rest of Northern California beginning Thursday evening and continuing through Monday, and local officials are urging county residents to be ready for the impact of heavy rain and wind.

The city of Lakeport's management, police and public works personnel have been meeting and preparing for the storm.

Staff is on standby to respond to any emergencies that the storm brings about.

Officials said that in the storm event of December, several street closures were in place. The city anticipates the same areas could be impacted in this storm event.

Areas of concern are Martin Street between Russell and South Forbes streets; Bevins Street between Bevins Court and Lakeport Boulevard; 10th Street from Forbes to Main streets; 16th and Hartley streets; 10th and Main streets; Lakeshore Boulevard and Lange Street; and Lange Street and Giselman Street.

Residents who experienced flooding during the last storm should take preventative measures, officials said.

Sand bags are available for purchase at local hardware stores such as Mendo-Mill (five free empty bags – while supplies last) and Kelseyville Lumber ($0.45 per bag empty, $2.98 pre-filled bags, $1 fill-your-own bags).

The public is encouraged to limit travel during the storm event.

If travel is necessary, the public is reminded not to bypass barricades, avoid areas of standing water and reduce speeds.

City officials said they will put out updates on the storm as additional information becomes available.