Malibu and Los Angeles County Beaches are under a coastal flood warning which was issued by the National Weather Service on Friday at 2:18 p.m. The warning is in effect until Sunday Oct. 11, at 3 p.m.
“For vulnerable south-facing beaches, especially Long Beach and Malibu, damaging sea-water flooding is likely. For all other beaches and harbors, minor coastal flooding is expected. High surf of 4 to 7 feet is also expected with strong rip currents,” can be expected according to the NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA. “Sunday carries the widest range of coastal flooding outcomes due to chances of rain, wind, low pressure tidal enhancements, and swells from multiple directions. Coastal flooding impacts on Sunday could be similar to other days, or greatly enhanced. High tides of 7.3 to 7.6 feet will be common each morning. This warning may be extended past Sunday, or converted to a Coastal Flood Advisory through Tuesday.”
“For vulnerable south-facing beaches, sea-water flooding can damage beach roads and structures, especially around the time of high tide. For all other beaches and harbors, shallow and minor sea-water flooding can impact beaches and walkways. For all beach areas, significant erosion is expected. There is an increased risk for ocean drowning. Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea. Large breaking waves can cause injury, wash people off beaches and rocks, and capsize small boats near shore,” according to the NWS. “Stay off of beaches and coastal walkways, roads, and structures. Do NOT drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth. Heed advice from local officials. Remain out of the water due to dangerous surf conditions, or stay near occupied lifeguard towers. Rock jetties can be deadly in such conditions, stay off the rocks.”
Road closures
Updates on road closures can be found on CalTrans’ website or mobile app or by calling 800-427-7623.
Emergency alerts in Southern California
For “considerable or catastrophic” hazards, emergency alerts will be sent to all enabled mobile phones in the area. To monitor lesser risk, residents are advised to sign up for county alert systems and to monitor agencies’ social media. How to sign up for alerts in your area:
Where to get sandbags
If you’re in an area at risk of flooding, sandbags can be one line of defense. County fire departments typically offer a limited supply of free sandbags for residents of their nearby communities. You should bring your own shovel to fill your bags, and be prepared to show proof of residency.
Sand and sandbags can also be purchased at many home improvement and hardware stores.
Here are links of locations that might have sandbags in your area:
Los Angeles County https://dpw. Lacounty. Gov/dsg/sandbags/
Orange County https://ocfa. Org/AboutUs/Departments/OperationsDirectory/Sandbags. Aspx
San Bernardino County https://sbcfire. Org/sandbags/
Riverside County https://rvcfire. Org/resources/fire-stations
How to fill a sandbag
Not sure how to fill your sandbags? Watch the how-to video, provided by the City of Seal Beach.
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 declared when flooding is on the verge of happening or is already underway.
Flood advisory: Be aware.
A flood advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning. However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may 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.
When floods strike: Guidelines from the NWS for your protection
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’re in a flood-prone area, or if you’re camping in a low-lying spot, move to higher ground as a first step.
Adhere to evacuation orders:
If local authorities issue an evacuation order, heed it promptly. Prior to 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:
Steer clear of basements or rooms where water has submerged electrical outlets or cords. This helps prevent electrical accidents.
Swift evacuation for your 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 just 6 inches of swiftly moving water can forcefully knock 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 periods of heavy rainfall, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas, the risk of flooding escalates. Remember this crucial advice: never attempt to drive through water on the road, even if it appears shallow. According to the NWS, as little as 12 inches of rapidly flowing water can carry away most vehicles. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.
For more local weather alerts, visit our Weather Advisory page