Los Angeles County is the focus of a flood watch released at 11:51 a.m. on Sunday by the National Weather Service. The watch is valid from Tuesday 4 p.m. until Wednesday Dec. 24, at 10 p.m.
The NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA said, “Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible.”
“Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Mud and debris flows will be possible across foothill and mountain areas, including recent burn scars,” the NWS said. “You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.”
The full list of affected locations includes:
- Catalina/Santa Barbara Islands
- Santa Clarita Valley
- Los Angeles County Beaches
- Palos Verdes Peninsula
- Los Angeles County Inland Coast including Downtown Los Angeles
- Western Santa Monica Mountains Recreational area
- Eastern Santa Monica Mountains Recreational area
- Calabasas/Agoura Hills
- San Fernando Valley
- Santa Susana Mountains
- 5 Freeway corridor near Santa Clarita
- Western San Gabriel Mountains/Highway 14 Corridor
- Eastern San Gabriel Mountains
- Western Antelope Valley Foothills
- Eastern Antelope Valley Foothills
- Antelope Valley
- San Gabriel Valley
- Cuyama Valley
- San Luis Obispo County Beaches
- San Luis Obispo County Inland Central Coast
- Santa Lucia Mountains
- Southern Salinas Valley
- San Luis Obispo County Interior Valleys
- San Luis Obispo County Mountains
- Santa Barbara County Central Coast Beaches
- Santa Barbara County Inland Central Coast
- Santa Ynez Valley
- Santa Barbara County Southwestern Coast
- Santa Barbara County Southeastern Coast
- Santa Ynez Mountains Western Range
- Santa Ynez Mountains Eastern Range
- Santa Barbara County Interior Mountains
- Ventura County Beaches
- Ventura County Inland Coast
- Lake Casitas
- Ojai Valley
- Central Ventura County Valleys
- Southeastern Ventura County Valleys
- Southern Ventura County Mountains
- Northern Ventura County Mountains
Breaking down weather alerts: advisories, watches, and warnings
- Flash flood warning: Take action!
A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood-prone area, move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.
- 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 doesn’t guarantee that flooding will occur, but it signifies that the possibility exists.
When floods strike: Guidelines from the NWS for your protection
In flood-prone regions or while camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the NWS flood safety guidelines can be a lifesaver:
Move to 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.
Follow 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 permits, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This precaution minimizes electrical hazards during flooding.
Avoid 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 higher ground when trapped:
In the event you become trapped by moving water, make your way to the highest point available and contact emergency services by calling 911.
When heavy rain occurs, there is a potential for flooding, particularly in areas that are low-lying or prone to floods. It is crucial to never drive through water on the road, even if it appears shallow. According to the NWS, as little as 12 inches of fast-flowing water can carry away most vehicles. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.
Navigating rainy roads: Safety tips for wet weather
When heavy rain strikes, safety is paramount. Equip yourself with these guidelines from the NWS to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards:
Beware of rapid water flow:
In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a grave danger.
Maintain safe driving distances:
Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.
Reduce speed and drive cautiously:
On wet roads, reducing your speed is crucial. Ease off the accelerator gradually and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.
Choose your lane wisely:
Stay toward the middle lanes – water tends to pool in the outside lanes.
Prioritize visibility:
Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.
Watch out for slippery roads:
Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.
Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:
Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass with caution.
Mind your windshield wipers:
- Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected spots.
- When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.
In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.
For more local weather alerts, visit our Weather Advisory page