Residents are preparing for flooding and evacuations in the Sierras.

The city of Sparks is anticipating shutting down roads leading into the industrial area at 1:00 p.m.today to protect the safety of the public.

Forecasts show flooding starting at around 2 p.m. today in downtown Reno. Peak flooding is expected in Reno between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Sunday and between 3 a.m. and 7 a.m. Monday in Sparks.

Washoe County says flooding could begin in downtown Reno as early as 2PM. The city of Reno says peak flooding is expected in Reno between 5PM and 8PM today, and Sparks peak flooding is expected between 3AM and 7AM on Monday

The Washoe County School District has officially canceled classes for Monday over weather concerns. Incline Village schools will also be closed.

Washoe County officials gave a press conference around 1:30 p.m. reporting some small stream flooding across Washoe County. Emergency Manager Aaron Kenneston said "we have a full emergency operations center activation and we're under a flood alert. Flooding has begun." They expect the flooding to continue the next 24 hours and that it will eventually lead to river flooding. The Truckee River at Reno reached 10 feet around 2 p.m.It's projected to reach major flooding stage at 4 p.m.the Truckee River at Reno is expected to crest at around 10 p.m. at 12.6 feet.

A warm storm they're calling an atmospheric river is expected to hit our area between now through Monday, raising the Truckee River to flood stage. Although the flooding isn't expected to be as bad as the famous '97 flood, it will mirror conditions similar to the flooding we had in '05.

If you're concerned about flood risks, and you should be, there are things you can do to reduce your risks for damage. Sandbags can steer water away from areas prone to damage, and some advance preparation can keep water from building up.

The Washoe County Emergency Management team wants you to stock up on groceries, fill your gas tank, and be generally prepared for this weekend's storm pattern. Washoe County Sheriff Chuck Allen says put off that hike or cross country ski trip you've been planning too.

Top of the Hour Newscast 6 am 01/07