LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – Due to the flooding and storm forecast for this week, county officials have issued a health advisory for the flood water present around Lake County.

Continued heavy rain has produced flood conditions around Clear Lake and other low-lying areas.

County officials said residents should be mindful of their proximity to Clear Lake and the flood conditions in their immediate area.

Officials also emphasized that it’s important to not drive or walk through running or standing water.

Flood waters may be contaminated from overflowing sewage systems. Your public sewer district is managing discharges and overflows with pumper trucks and other responses, officials said.

Residents and businesses with private septic systems also can face overflow or backup situations, according to the county. The septic tank may be surcharged with flood water and the leach field will not work well in saturated soil conditions.

Flood waters can contain unhealthy substances, which officials said could increase the potential for transmission of communicable diseases.

The following general precautions are advised:

– Reduce flow into your drains with strict water conservation measures.
– Avoid contact with flood waters.
– Wash your hands frequently.
– Disinfect or discard objects that have been in flood water.
– Employ professional service for septic system repair and maintenance.

If your home or business is inundated, please contact the Lake County Community Development office at 707-263-2221 and Lake County Environmental Health at 707-263-1164 before reoccupying the structure.