Los Angeles County is currently under a flood advisory, as announced by the National Weather Service (NWS). This advisory was issued early Thursday at 2:51 a.m. and will remain effective until 8:15 a.m. Residents should prepare for potential flooding due to moderate to heavy rainfall.
Current Weather Conditions
According to the NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard, rainfall rates have been observed between 0.25 and 0.45 inches per hour. This can lead to minor flooding in low-lying areas and poor drainage regions. Small streams may rise, and ponding of water in urban areas is either occurring or imminent.
Safety Recommendations
The NWS has issued several critical safety recommendations for those in the affected areas:
- Do not attempt to drive through flooded roads. Most flood-related fatalities occur in vehicles.
- If you encounter flooded roads, remember: “Turn around, don’t drown.”
- Be especially cautious at night, as it is harder to recognize flooding dangers.
Understanding Flood Alerts
The NWS provides different types of alerts to inform the public about potential flooding conditions:
| Alert Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Flash Flood Warning | Immediate action is necessary as a flash flood is imminent or occurring. |
| Flood Warning | Flooding is likely occurring or about to occur. |
| Flood Advisory | Minor flooding is expected, which may cause inconveniences. |
| Flood Watch | Conditions may become favorable for flooding. |
Flood Safety Guidelines
Adopting safety measures is crucial, especially for those living in or near flood-prone areas:
- Move to higher ground if you are in a flood-prone location or camping in low areas.
- Follow evacuation orders promptly if they are issued by local authorities.
- Disconnect utilities if time allows to mitigate electrical hazards.
- Avoid any areas where water may be charged with electricity.
Driving Safety During Heavy Rain
Heavy rain increases the risk of hazardous driving conditions. Follow these guidelines to stay safe:
- Avoid parking or walking near flood-prone areas and swollen waterways.
- Maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead to avoid collisions.
- Slow down and be cautious to prevent skidding on wet roads.
- Turn on headlights and watch for other vehicles.
- Seek shelter if visibility drastically declines due to rain.
Staying informed of local weather conditions and heeding advice from authorities will help ensure safety throughout the duration of this flood advisory in Los Angeles County.
