The National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Riverside and La Paz counties at 8:27 a.m. Monday, effective until 9:15 a.m.
Residents in the affected areas should prepare for wind gusts of up to 60 mph.
“At 8:26 a.m., a severe thunderstorm was located 16 miles east of Midland, or 20 miles southwest of Parker, moving northeast at 10 mph,” the NWS stated, warning of potential “damage to roofs, siding, and trees.”
The warning specifically includes Poston and the stretch of CA Route 95 between mile markers 20 and 33.
The NWS also advises residents to “remain alert for a possible tornado,” as they can develop quickly from severe thunderstorms. “If you spot a tornado go at once into the basement or small central room in a sturdy structure. For your protection move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building.”
Public Safety Resources and Information
In response to the severe weather, officials are reminding residents of available resources and crucial safety protocols.
Road Closures and Emergency Alerts
For the latest on road closures, visit the CalTrans website, use its mobile app, or call 800-427-7623.
While emergency alerts for “considerable or catastrophic” hazards are sent to all enabled mobile phones in an area, residents are encouraged to sign up for local county alert systems for information on lesser risks.
Flood Preparedness and Sandbags
For those in areas at risk of flooding, county fire departments often provide a limited number of free sandbags to local residents. Be prepared to show proof of residency and bring your own shovel. Sand and sandbags are also available for purchase at most hardware and home improvement stores.
- Los Angeles County Sandbag Locations
- Orange County Sandbag Locations
- San Bernardino County Sandbag Locations
- Riverside County Fire Stations
The City of Seal Beach provides a how-to video on how to properly fill and use sandbags.
Thunderstorm and Lightning Safety
According to the NWS, about 20 people are killed by lightning in the U.S. each year. The risk is highest when a storm is directly overhead but can persist even as it moves away.
- Be Prepared: If you plan to be outdoors, have a shelter plan. If you can hear thunder, lightning is close enough to strike. Seek shelter immediately.
- Indoors: Avoid using corded phones, electronics, and plumbing. Stay away from windows and doors, as lightning can travel through a building’s wiring and pipes.
- Wait for Safety: Remain indoors for at least 30 minutes after the last clap of thunder.
- If Caught Outdoors: Avoid open fields, hilltops, and tall, isolated objects like trees. In a forest, seek shelter in a lower stand of trees. If in a group, spread out. Tents offer no protection from lightning. Stay away from water and metal objects, which are excellent conductors of electricity.
Driving in Heavy Rain
Hazardous road conditions can develop quickly during a downpour. The NWS recommends the following safety measures:
- Slow Down: Reduce your speed and avoid sudden braking to prevent skidding on wet roads. Roads are often most slippery during the first half-hour of rainfall as oil and grime mix with water.
- Increase Following Distance: Double the standard two-second following distance to at least four seconds to allow for more reaction time.
- Improve Visibility: Turn on your headlights. If heavy rain severely limits your vision, pull over to a safe location, like a rest stop, until conditions improve. If you must stop on the roadside, pull as far over as possible, keep your headlights on, and activate your emergency flashers.
- Avoid Hydroplaning: Water tends to pool in the outer lanes, so stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads when possible.
- Be Wary of Large Vehicles: Trucks and buses can create significant tire spray, reducing your visibility. Keep a safe distance and pass with caution.
