The National Weather Service in San Diego issued a Flood Advisory at 5:25 p.m. PDT on August 23, warning of minor flooding from excessive rainfall in parts of southwestern California, including San Diego County. The advisory is in effect until 5:54 p.m. PDT. Doppler radar indicated heavy rain from thunderstorms, with 0.5 to 1 inch already fallen. Flooding is ongoing or expected shortly, affecting areas including Borrego Springs, Ocotillo Wells, and several highway stretches.
KEY FACTS
- The advisory covers portions of San Diego County, including Borrego Springs, Ocotillo Wells, and Agua Caliente.
- Between 0.5 and 1 inch of rain has fallen, with additional heavy rain possible.
- Impacts include rises in small streams and normally dry arroyos, water over roadways, and potentially impassable low water crossings.
- Affected routes include Highway 78 between Borrego Springs Road and Ocotillo Wells, and Highway S2 in several segments.
- The advisory expires at 5:54 p.m. PDT today.
CONTEXT
The Flood Advisory was issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) San Diego office, a primary authority for weather warnings. The advisory is based on Doppler radar data indicating thunderstorms producing heavy rain. The affected area is a portion of Southwest California, specifically within San Diego County. The NWS notes that minor flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly. The advisory includes specific locations that may experience flooding, such as Fish Creek Wash and various segments of Highways 78 and S2. These areas are typically dry desert terrain where sudden rainfall can lead to flash flooding. The NWS advises caution and provides flood safety information on its website. This advisory is a short term warning, lasting only about 29 minutes, reflecting the rapidly changing nature of thunderstorm activity.
WHY IT MATTERS
This advisory matters because it highlights the sudden and localized danger of flash flooding in desert regions, where normally dry washes and arroyos can quickly become dangerous. For residents and travelers in the affected areas, especially those on highways like 78 and S2, the risk of encountering water over roadways or impassable crossings is immediate. Even a short duration advisory can signal life threatening conditions, and the NWS's prompt warning allows people to avoid flooded routes and seek higher ground.
WHAT TO WATCH
- Monitor local weather updates and NWS alerts for changes to the advisory or additional warnings.
- Avoid driving through flooded roadways; turn around if you encounter water over the road.
- Be aware of rising water in small streams and dry washes, especially near Fish Creek Wash and other low lying areas.
- Check road conditions for Highways 78 and S2 before traveling in the affected region.