SAN BERNARDINO • The Victor Valley area may receive a half inch of rain through Thursday as a storm rolls through Southern California, the National Weather Service reported Tuesday.
Experts are also forecasting the possibility of snow at high elevations.
The National Weather Service issued a flash-flood watch effective Tuesday evening for the Inland Empire and mountain areas, though the Victor Valley most likely will not be affected by this, according to NWS officials.
San Bernardino County officials are advising residents in and below areas that have burned in recent years to be aware of and prepare for the possibility of flooding. Other low-lying areas near and adjacent to watercourses may experience localized flooding.
County Public Works crews will monitor weather conditions around the clock for the duration of the storms.
Residents are urged to be aware of their surroundings and approaching weather systems. They are also urged to review and update their emergency and evacuation plans, and if roads leading away from their property are in danger of being washed out, to identify the nearest high ground. Heavy thunderstorms can develop quickly and county crews may not have time to organize formal door-to-door evacuations.
Residents are advised to stay clear of flood control debris basins and channels. People can be swept away by a surge of water run off, mud flow or debris flow. These areas are also dangerous when it is not raining as people may become trapped in mud and debris by venturing onto what may appear to be stable soil.
Do not drive where water is over the road as floodwaters can rise rapidly and sweep a car and its occupants away.
The San Bernardino County Flood Area Safety Task Force is staying in contact with the National Weather Service about developing storm conditions. FAST members include officials from various county departments and cities, plus state and federal emergency agencies.
The public can obtain information on storm conditions by accessing the San Diego National Weather Service Web site at www.weather.gov/sandiego.
Information on sandbags and other disaster preparedness measures is on the county Web page at www.sbcounty.gov/floodinfo; click on “Sandbag Information” and then “Flood Control Home.”
Recorded information is available by calling (909) 355-8800.
NWS officials say while there is a possibility of snow in local mountains, the snow level is expected to remain above 7,000 feet. Visitors and residents driving into the mountains are advised to be prepared with chains and necessary supplies for snow conditions and possible road closures.
