PLACER COUNTY, Calif. — One of the most significant weather systems so far this year is set to have widespread impacts on the Sierra, and it comes just days before the 2024 California primary election.
Vote centers are already open in parts of the region and more are expected to open this weekend as the weather worsens. Some of the centers could be impacted by the forecasted blizzard conditions.
"We have generators, we have snow plows, we are ready for business, and we are absolutely going to make sure people can exercise their right to vote and use their voice come Election Day," said Placer County Elections spokesperson Stacy Robinson.
The Placer County Elections Office has been working with the Office of Emergency Services and the County Roads Division on plans for snow removal so locals can vote in-person or by mail.
"Given our diverse terrain and our huge range in elevation, we are well-versed in producing elections in all kinds of conditions," said Robinson.
And the impacts won't just be felt in Placer County but in El Dorado and Nevada County too. Elections offices are readying generators at vote centers, coordinating with the postal services and making plans to keep the way clear for voters.
"There are not many blizzards that reach the town of Truckee, so this is sort of a unique situation that we find ourselves in," said Nevada County registrar of voters Natalie Adona.
Safety is a top priority for elections officials.
"I've spoken with our vote center workers in the South Lake Tahoe area and let them know that if there is an issue or a safety concern with getting to the vote centers that that's of paramount," said El Dorado County registrar of voters Bill O'Neill. "If they can't get there, then the voters can't get there."
In a statement to ABC10, the United States Postal Service for the region said if mail carriers can safely deliver and retrieve mail, they will. If not, they will try the next day.
"We strive to ensure that all mail is delivered and picked up promptly, regardless of the weather conditions. Even in the face of inclement weather, our efforts to fulfill our duties are unwavering. First and foremost is the safety of our employees. If they can safely deliver and retrieve mail then they do so, if not, delivery and retrieval is attempted the next day. Our carriers experience this type of weather every year, and still they deliver. Our offices will be fully staffed."
Elections officials are asking voters to cast their ballots as soon as possible. Mail-in ballots must be postmarked by March 5.
WATCH MORE CALIFORNIA WEATHER: Blizzard Warning, dangerous deep snow & the biggest storm of the year
