Los Angeles County is the focus of a flash flood warning issued at 6:09 p.m. on Thursday by the National Weather Service. The warning is in effect until 7 p.m.
“At 6:09 p.m., Doppler radar and automated rain gauges indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area. Between 1 and 2 inches of rain have fallen. Flash flooding is already occurring,” says the NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA. “Life threatening flash flooding of creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses.”
Locations impacted by the warning include Pearblossom, Llano, Valyermo, Angeles Crest Highway between Mount Waterman and Wrightwood and Angeles Crest Highway between Mount Wilson and Mount Waterman.
The NWS said, “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads.”
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.
Your guide to 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 does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.
Staying safe during a flood: Recommendations from the NWS
In flood-prone regions or while camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the NWS flood safety guidelines can be a lifesaver:
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 permits, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This precaution minimizes 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 noises, evacuate immediately. Avoid any water that may be charged with electricity.
Stay away from 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.
When heavy rain occurs, there is a risk of flooding, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone regions. It is important to never attempt to drive through water on the road, regardless of how deep it appears. According to the NWS, as little as 12 inches of rushing water can sweep away most vehicles. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.
Driving through downpours: Safety guidelines for wet roads
When heavy rain strikes, safety is paramount. Equip yourself with these guidelines from the NWS to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards:
Beware of swollen waterways:
During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk.
Maintain safe driving distances:
Adhere to the two-second rule for maintaining a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds of distance to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness.
Slow down and stay cautious:
On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.
Choose your lane wisely:
Stick to the middle lanes to minimize the risk of hydroplaning. Outer lanes are more prone to accumulating water.
Visibility matters:
Turn on your headlights and be careful of other vehicles to the rear and in blind spot areas as they are especially difficult to see through rain-spattered windows.
Watch out for slippery roads:
The initial half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mixture of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.
Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:
Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.
Mind your windshield wipers:
- Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered 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.