Heavy Rain and Flash Flooding Concerns in California; Heavy Snow in the Sierra

An atmospheric river will bring heavy rainfall to lower elevations of California this week, and heavy snow to the Sierra Nevada mountains. Flash flooding, some of which may be locally considerable, will be a concern on the western foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains through Tuesday. Landslides, rockfalls and mudslides are possible in the Southern California mountains. Read More >

Weather Safety - Floods

When a flood watch is issued

Be alert to signs of flooding and be prepared to take action if a warning is issued.

When a flood warning is issued

If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood water.
Continue monitoring NOAA Weather Radio, television, or emergency broadcast station for information.

Safety tips

Get out of areas subject to flooding. This includes dips, low spots, etc.
Avoid already flooded areas. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams.
If driving, be aware that the road bed may not be intact under flood waters. Turn around and go another way. NEVER drive through flooded roadways. Nearly half of all flood/flash flood fatalities are auto-related.
If your vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground. Rising water may engulf your vehicle and its occupants. Remember, it's better to be wet than dead!
Be especially cautious at night when it's harder to recognize flooding dangers.
Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams during threatening conditions.
Children should NEVER play around high water or storm drains.

After the flood

If fresh food has come in contact with flood waters, throw it out.
Boil drinking water before using. Wells should be pumped out and the water tested for purity before drinking. If in doubt, call your local public health authority.
Seek necessary medical care at the nearest hospital. Food, clothing, shelter, and first aid are available from the Red Cross.
Do not visit flood areas. Your presence might hamper rescue and other emergency operations.
Electrical equipment should be checked and dried before being returned to service.
Use flashlights (not lanterns, torches, or matches) to examine buildings. Flammables may be inside.
Report broken utility lines to appropriate authorities.

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