Heavy Rainfall and Flooding Alert
Overview
Heavy rainfall is continuing in the region, resulting in a flood warning and flood watch. The National Weather Service reports significant rainfall in Santa Barbara, Ventura, and Los Angeles counties, with some areas receiving up to five inches of rain. The storm has also caused power outages in the North Glendale area, affecting around 6,000 customers.
Evacuation Orders and Warnings
Mandatory evacuations have been issued for certain areas in Los Angeles and Santa Barbara counties due to the incoming major storm. Residents in mountain, canyon, and coastal areas must prepare for potential debris flows and flooding. Pay attention to any indications of land movement and follow evacuation orders and warnings. Stay updated with information from reliable sources.
Schools and Universities
As per the current forecast, schools in Los Angeles Unified School District will remain open unless weather conditions change. However, some specific schools within affected areas will be closed, while others may opt for remote classes. Universities such as UCLA and USC are operating normally, while others like Cal State Fullerton and UC Santa Barbara have implemented remote instruction or schedule changes. Keep in touch with your school or university for any updates.
Safety Precautions and Tips
- Check weather and road conditions along your planned route before traveling.
- Drive at a slower speed and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles.
- Avoid driving through standing water, as even a few inches of rushing water can carry away cars.
- Ensure your tires are fully inflated and your windshield wipers are in good condition.
- If you encounter a downed tree, powerline, or flooded road, dial 911 in case of emergencies.
- For reporting non-emergency issues like flooded roads or downed trees, call the appropriate city or county helplines.
Staying Safe in High Winds
When facing high winds:
- Treat intersections with non-functioning traffic signals as four-way stops.
- Have a battery-operated radio and flashlights with fresh batteries on hand.
- If your vehicle comes in contact with a fallen powerline, stay inside and call 911. Exit the vehicle away from the powerline by jumping out and landing with both feet together. Shuffle your feet to move several yards away.
- Water and electricity do not mix, so avoid entering water that may be in contact with a downed powerline.
- Do not use outdoor heating or cooking equipment indoors, as they can produce toxic gases.
- When using a generator, place it outdoors and connect appliances directly using a heavy-duty extension cord.
- Keep refrigerator and freezer doors closed to maintain food freshness. Use blocks of ice to help keep food cold.
- Check on your neighbors to ensure their safety.
Tips for Staying Warm
To keep warm while being mindful of costs:
- Use heating systems judiciously, such as setting the thermostat to around 70 degrees and using wall heaters or central AC only at night.
- Open and close vents strategically to direct warm air to specific areas.
- Adjust wall heaters to control temperature output and close doors to unused rooms.
- Utilize ceiling fans by setting them to spin clockwise, creating an updraft to circulate warm air.
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