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    Flood watch issued for Orange County and Santa Ana Mountains for Wednesday and Thursday
    • March 10, 2025

    Orange County and Santa Ana Mountains is under a flood watch which was issued by the National Weather Service on Monday at 1:28 p.m. The watch is valid from Wednesday 10 p.m. until Thursday, Mar. 13 at 6 p.m.

    The NWS San Diego 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. Debris flow are possible near recent burn scars. Areas of flooding possible in the mountains below the snow level,” 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:

    • Santa Ana Mountains/Foothills
    • Orange County Coast
    • Orange County
    • San Diego County Coastal Areas
    • San Bernardino and Riverside County Valleys
    • San Diego County Inland Valleys
    • San Bernardino County Mountains
    • Riverside County Mountains
    • San Diego County Mountains

    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 either imminent or already occurring. In flood-prone areas, it’s crucial to move immediately to higher ground. A flash flood is a sudden and violent inundation that can develop within minutes to hours, and it can even happen in areas not currently experiencing rainfall.

    • Flood warning: Take action!

    A flood warning is declared when flooding is on the verge of happening or is already underway.

    • 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.

    Be flood-ready: Expert guidance from the NWS for your safety

    Floods can pose a significant threat, especially if you live in a flood-prone area or find yourself camping in a low-lying region. To ensure your safety, the NWS offers essential flood safety guidelines:

    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.

    Adhere to 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:

    Steer clear of basements or rooms where water has submerged electrical outlets or cords. This helps prevent electrical accidents.

    Evacuate promptly for 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 if they appear shallow. Just 6 inches of fast-moving water can forcefully sweep 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.

    During heavy rain, flooding is possible, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Never drive through water on the road, even if it does not appear to be deep. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, according to the NWS. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.

    Navigating heavy rain: Essential safety measures for wet roads

    When heavy rain sets in, the risk of flooding and hazardous driving conditions rises. Whether it’s prolonged rainfall or rapid runoff, being prepared is essential. Here are some valuable safety tips from the NWS to ensure you stay safe in heavy rain:

    Beware of rapid water flow:

    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, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

    Choose your lane wisely:

    Stay toward the middle lanes – water tends to pool in the outside lanes.

    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 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 limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected 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.

    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.

    ​ Orange County Register 

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