Last October's major storm served as a wake-up call to many Kern County residents. Now that we're in January, El Niño season is officially here. This week brings a series of storms and most residents are taking the threat seriously. 

Kern County residents have also been taking advantage of the availability of free sandbags. KCFD said they had a successful series of Sandbag Saturdays. So much so, that those scrambling to make last minute storm preparations were surprised to find most sandbags gone at their local fire departments. Even the sand supply at the KCFD headquarters ran low by the end of the business day. 

"I went to one fire department and was told they were out. So, I was told that you have the sand down there, so I went up to a hardware storm, and picked up 20 bags, and got my gloves, and am ready to go to work," said Marie Lott, a Northwest Bakersfield resident.

Tyler Townsend, KCFD Captain, said they will get more sand for self-made sandbags by Tuesday.