The city of Los Angeles is currently under a series of flood watches and advisories, as issued by the National Weather Service Los Angeles/Oxnard CA. Residents in affected areas are advised to be alert for possible flood warnings and prepared to take action should flooding develop. According to the extended forecast, the region can expect "showers and possibly a thunderstorm" with new rainfall amounts between a tenth and a quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Localized flooding is expected due to "excessive rainfall," specifically in regions including the Santa Clarita Valley, Malibu Coast, Los Angeles County Beaches, and others. Confirmed by the National Weather Service, rain rates between 0.50 and 0.75 inches per hour are possible during the night with scattered showers not guaranteeing heavy rain for all areas.
Effected until 7 AM PST today, the flood advisory suggests that urban and small stream flooding is likely to occur. The advisory also highlights the increased risk for those living in low-lying and poor drainage areas where "minor flooding" is a concern. Motorists are advised to exercise extreme caution and to avoid driving on flooded roads. The advisory also noted, "At 529 AM PST, Doppler radar indicated areas of heavy rain."
Impacts from the weather conditions could be varied, with possible challenges such as "water over roadways" and ponding in urban areas. When it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding, residents in affected parts of Los Angeles are urged to "be aware of your surroundings," especially at night, as per the statement from the National Weather Service. Areas that could be hit include Downtown Los Angeles, Long Beach, Santa Monica, and others, all while the poor drainage areas are being prepared to respond to potential flooding. The residents in this area are advised to be especially cautious during these times and report any serious flooding to local authorities as soon as it is safe to do so.
