MANTECA — San Joaquin County OES is reporting a levee breach on the San Joaquin River, about two miles to the west of Airport Way and Perrin Road near Manteca.
Officials say the breach has been halted but emergency evacuations remain in place.
The breach was caused by the rising San Joaquin River and recent storms. Crews are working on filling the levee gap and reducing the flow of water. Crews will continue to stay on scene to stabilize the levee.
The evacuation area stretches from Woodward Road (to the north), Mortensen Road (to the south) and Union Avenue (to the east). The river itself is the western border of the evacuation area.
For the immediate future, McMullin Road, Perrin Road and Airport Court will all be closed where they intersect with Airport Way. Travel will only be allowed on those roads for repair crews.
Flash Flood Warning issued for levee breach on #SanJoaquin River. Follow evacuation orders from local emergency officials! #CAFlood #cawx pic.twitter.com/NY1tegpned
— NWS Sacramento (@NWSSacramento) February 21, 2017
The area is mostly farmland, but there are some homes in the region that could be impacted. Roughly 500 people live in the evacuation area.
An evacuation center is being set up at the Lathrop Community Center at 15552 Fifth Street in Lathrop.
Manteca City Animal Shelter can hold small pets. It’s at 115 E. Wetmore Street.
If you are evacuating, take an emergency kit of prescription medications, important documents, clothing and pets with you.
Officials: Levee Breach Near Manteca Halted; Some Evacuated Residents Can Return