Los Angeles County is included in an updated flash flood warning issued by the National Weather Service on Thursday at 5:01 p.m. The warning is in effect until 9 p.m.
“At 5:01 p.m., Doppler radar and automated rain gauges indicated heavy rain overspreading the Bridge Burn Scar. There is now a high risk for a life-threatening debris flow,” according to the NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA. “Mud, rock, and debris flows will have the potential to impact drainages, roads, and residences in and directly below the burn area.”
The warning is for areas in and below Bridge burn scar.
The NWS said, “This is a life threatening situation. Heavy rainfall will cause extensive and severe flash flooding of creeks, streams and ditches in the Eaton Burn Scar. Severe debris flows can also be anticipated across roads. Roads and driveways may be washed away in places. If you encounter flood waters, climb to safety.”
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:
LA County
Orange County
Riverside County
San Bernardino County
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 dpw. Lacounty. Gov/dsg/sandbags/
Orange County ocfa. Org/AboutUs/Departments/OperationsDirectory/Sandbags. Aspx
San Bernardino County sbcfire. Org/sandbags/
Riverside County 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.
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 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 doesn’t guarantee that flooding will occur, but it signifies that the possibility exists.
Weathering the storm: Flood safety guidelines 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:
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.
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 permits, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This precaution minimizes electrical hazards during flooding.
Avoid basements and submerged areas:
Avoid basements or rooms submerged in water with electrical outlets or cords. Preventing electrical accidents is crucial.
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.
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 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 heavy rain: Essential safety measures for wet roads
Rain can turn roads into hazards. Stay informed and follow these tips from the NWS to ensure safety during heavy rainfall:
Beware of swollen waterways:
Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away.
Maintain safe driving distances:
The two-second rule for following distance is your ally in heavy rain. Extend it to four seconds to ensure safe spacing in adverse conditions.
Slow down and stay cautious:
On wet roads, reducing your speed is crucial. Ease off the gas pedal gradually 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.
Prioritize visibility:
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 first half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mix of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.
Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:
Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass them swiftly 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. If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce risks and ensure your well-being when heavy rain pours down. Stay informed about weather conditions and heed advice from local authorities to make your journey safe and sound.
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Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( Update: Flash flood warning issued for Los Angeles County until Thursday night )
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