Los Angeles County beaches was placed under a coastal flood advisory by the National Weather Service on Wednesday at 11:39 a.m. The advisory is in effect until Friday Oct. 30, at 2 p.m.
“Minor to moderate coastal flooding expected due to very high tides,” the NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA said. “High tides will likely reach 7.5-8.0 feet (MLLW) late morning Thursday, which is 1.0 to 1.5 feet above astronomical projections. Decreasing some on Friday but still expecting near 7.5 feet (MLLW) around noon.”
“Minor to moderate flooding of sea water is likely over vulnerable low-lying coastal areas, especially around the time of high tide, including over beach parking lots, bike paths, and harbor walkways. Moderate to significant beach erosion is likely. Isolated damage of structures due to sea water inundation is possible to the most vulnerable areas,” according to the NWS. “Take the necessary actions to protect flood-prone property. Do NOT drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth.”
The full list of affected locations includes:
- Malibu
- Los Angeles County Beaches
- San Luis Obispo County Beaches
- Santa Barbara County Central Coast Beaches
- Santa Barbara County Southwestern Coast
- Santa Barbara County Southeastern Coast
- Ventura County Beaches
Deciphering advisories, watches, and warnings: Understanding weather alerts
Flash flood warning: Take action.
A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is either imminent or already occurring. In flood-prone areas, it’s crucial to move immediately to higher ground. A flash flood is a sudden and violent inundation that can develop within minutes to hours, and it can even happen in areas not currently experiencing rainfall.
Flood warning: Take action.
A flood warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.
Flood advisory: Be aware.
A flood advisory is released when flooding is not expected to reach a severity level necessitating a warning. Nonetheless, it can still cause considerable inconvenience and, without exercising caution, potentially lead to situations that threaten life and/or property.
Flood watch: Be prepared.
A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.
Be flood-ready: Expert guidance from the NWS for your safety
Floods can pose a significant threat, especially if you live in a flood-prone area or find yourself camping in a low-lying region. To ensure your safety, the NWS offers essential flood safety guidelines:
Seek higher ground:
If you reside in a flood-prone region or are camping in low-lying terrain, the first step to safety is relocating to higher ground.
Follow evacuation orders:
When local authorities issue an evacuation order, promptly comply. Before leaving, secure your home by locking it.
Disconnect utilities and appliances:
If time allows, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This reduces the risk of electrical hazards during flooding.
Steer clear of flooded basements and submerged areas:
Avoid basements or rooms submerged in water with electrical outlets or cords. Preventing electrical accidents is crucial.
Evacuate promptly for safety:
If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping sounds, evacuate without delay. Do not enter water that may carry an electrical charge.
Refrain from walking in floodwaters:
Never attempt to walk through floodwaters, even if they appear shallow. Just 6 inches of fast-moving water can forcefully sweep you off your feet.
Seek high ground if trapped:
Should you become trapped by moving water, reach the highest point possible and dial 911 to contact emergency services.
During heavy rain, flooding is possible, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Never drive through water on the road, even if it does not appear to be deep. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, according to the NWS. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.
For more local weather alerts, visit our Weather Advisory page