Forestville is mostly high ground, but the river's edge isn't. The neighborhoods around Mirabel and River Road flood well before the town center sees any water.
The levels that matter here
From the CNRFC's Guerneville gauge impact list (CNRFC):
- 33 ft: The Mirabel trailer park begins to flood.
- 36 ft: Mirabel Park Resort and the Mirabel trailer park flood.
- 37 ft: Mirabel Road at River Road floods.
Because Forestville's key roads flood at these levels, plan to leave early if you live in a low area.
What 2019 showed
The County's after-action report on the February 2019 flood notes that about 250 customers near the Mirabel Road and River Road intersection had gas service shut off as the river rose (County EOC after-action report). Expect utilities to be affected in big floods, and don't relight gas appliances yourself afterward.
Local resources
- Sandbags: the County has listed Sonoma County Fire District Station 7, 6554 Mirabel Road (SoCoEmergency).
- Alerts: SoCoAlert.
- Permits: Permit Sonoma handles unincorporated Forestville.
Want a local pro to take a look?It's free for homeowners and there's no obligation.
Cleanup steps
- Re-enter only when officials say it's safe, and check for gas and electrical hazards.
- Photograph everything for insurance.
- Remove soaked carpet, pad, insulation and drywall promptly. Treat floodwater as contaminated.
- Dry the structure with documented readings. See the drying process.
Related
Sources
- CNRFC: Russian River at Guerneville
- County of Sonoma: Late February 2019 Storm and Flood EOC after-action report
- SoCoEmergency: Sandbags
- FEMA Flood Map Service Center
- Permit Sonoma
Sources checked October 18, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Is Forestville in a flood zone?
Parts near the river are. Check your address on FEMA's Flood Map Service Center.
Will my gas be shut off in a flood?
It happened near Mirabel Road in 2019. Follow PG&E and County instructions.