A series of winter storms could bring significant rainfall to Southern California this week, forecasters said.
Forecasters predict a series of storms headed into the area Tuesday, January 5 through Friday, January 8, with the heaviest rainfall expected from Tuesday afternoon’s first storm system. A flash-flood watch is in effect for the canyon areas and coastal western facing slopes. Wind gusts may reach 30 mph in the coastal areas. The City of Rancho Santa Margarita recommends the following preparation tips for residents:
• Clear debris from drainage systems on your property.
• Remove potentially hazardous tree branches and vegetation.
• Register for AlertOC, the County’s mass notification system at www.alertoc.com to ensure receipt of up-to the-minute emergency notifications from the City and County.
• Prepare for power outages; locate flashlights and extra batteries.
Use sand bags in areas known for flooding around your property. Sand bags are currently available at OCFA Station 18 located at 30942 Trabuco Canyon Road, Trabuco Canyon, 92678. Residents can receive up to 25 filled or empty sand bags, free of charge. Additionally, most home improvement stores have sand bags for sale.
Flash flooding can occur without warning; according to the National Weather Service, 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. Twelve inches of rushing water can carry away a small car, and 2 feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles. It is NEVER safe to drive or walk into flood waters.
Visit the City’s El Nino webpage for more preparation tips, storm updates, and to report storm-related damage. The County of Orange has information available for residents at ReadyOC.com and OCElNino.com.