Tag: weather advisory

Los Angeles County is included in a flood watch issued by the National Weather Service on Monday at 1:11 a.m. The watch is valid between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m.

The NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA said, “Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible. Rock and mud slides are possible near steep terrain. Debris flows are possible on burn scars.”

“Flash flooding is possible. Excessive runoff may result in flooding of low-lying and flood-prone locations, including creeks and streams. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. Low-water crossings may be flooded. Extensive street flooding is possible,” according to the NWS. “You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop. Travel through passes and canyons could become dangerous, and be alert for rock slides and mud slides. Follow the direction of Emergency Management and Law Enforcement officials.”

The full list of affected locations includes:

• Catalina/Santa Barbara Islands
• Santa Clarita Valley
• Malibu
• Los Angeles County Beaches
• Palos Verdes Peninsula
• Los Angeles County Inland Coast including Downtown Los Angeles
• Western Santa Monica Mountains Recreational area
• Eastern Santa Monica Mountains Recreational area
• Calabasas/Agoura Hills
• San Fernando Valley
• Santa Susana Mountains
• 5 Freeway corridor near Santa Clarita
• Western San Gabriel Mountains/Highway 14 Corridor
• Eastern San Gabriel Mountains
• San Gabriel Valley
• Santa Ynez Valley
• Santa Barbara County Southwestern Coast
• Santa Barbara County Southeastern Coast
• Santa Ynez Mountains Western Range
• Santa Ynez Mountains Eastern Range
• Santa Barbara County Interior Mountains
• Ventura County Beaches
• Ventura County Inland Coast
• Lake Casitas
• Ojai Valley
• Central Ventura County Valleys
• Southeastern Ventura County Valleys
• Southern Ventura County Mountains
• Northern Ventura County Mountains
• San Miguel/Santa Rosa Islands
• Santa Cruz/Anacapa Islands

Understanding the differences between advisories, watches, and warnings

• Flash flood warning: Take action!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood-prone area, move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.

• Flood warning: Take action!

A flood warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

• Flood advisory: Be aware:

A flood advisory is released when flooding is not expected to reach a severity level necessitating a warning. Nonetheless, it can still cause considerable inconvenience and, without exercising caution, potentially lead to situations that threaten life and/or property.

• Flood watch: Be prepared:

A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It doesn’t guarantee that flooding will occur, but it signifies that the possibility exists.

Staying safe during a flood: Recommendations from the NWS

In flood-prone regions or while camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the NWS flood safety guidelines can be a lifesaver:

Move to higher ground:

If you reside in a flood-prone region or are camping in low-lying terrain, the first step to safety is relocating to higher ground.

Adhere to evacuation orders:

When local authorities issue an evacuation order, promptly comply. Before leaving, secure your home by locking it.

Disconnect utilities and appliances:

If time permits, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This precaution minimizes electrical hazards during flooding.

Steer clear of flooded basements and submerged areas:

Steer clear of basements or rooms where water has submerged electrical outlets or cords. This helps prevent electrical accidents.

Swift evacuation for your safety:

If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping noises, evacuate immediately. Avoid any water that may be charged with electricity.

Stay away from floodwaters:

Never attempt to walk through floodwaters, even if they appear shallow. Just 6 inches of fast-moving water can forcefully sweep you off your feet.

Seek high ground if trapped:

In the event you become trapped by moving water, make your way to the highest point available and contact emergency services by calling 911.

During heavy rainfall, there is a risk of flooding, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Remember to never drive through water on the road, even if it seems shallow. According to the NWS, as little as 12 inches of rapidly flowing water can carry away most cars. Prioritize your safety by staying informed and prepared.

Driving through downpours: Safety guidelines for wet roads

When heavy rain sets in, the risk of flooding and hazardous driving conditions rises. Whether it’s prolonged rainfall or rapid runoff, being prepared is essential. Here are some valuable safety tips from the NWS to ensure you stay safe in heavy rain:

Beware of swollen waterways:

During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an extra two seconds in heavy rain.

Slow down and drive with care:

If it is raining and the roads are wet, slow down. Take your foot off the accelerator and let your speed drop gradually. Never use the brakes suddenly because this may cause the car to skid.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to accumulate in outer lanes.

Visibility matters:

Turn on your headlights and be careful of other vehicles to the rear and in blind spot areas as they are especially difficult to see through rain-spattered windows.

Watch out for slippery roads:

Be extra careful during the first half hour after rain begins. Grime and oil on the road surface mix with water to make the road slippery.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass with caution.

Mind your windshield wipers:

• Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely impairs your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or sheltered spots.
• If the roadside is your only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail, and wait until the storm passes. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.

By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce risks and ensure your well-being when heavy rain pours down. Stay informed about weather conditions and heed advice from local authorities to make your journey safe and sound.

For more local weather alerts, visit our Weather Advisory page

Malibu and Los Angeles County Beaches were placed under a beach hazards statement by the National Weather Service on Sunday at 1:47 a.m. The statement is valid for Monday, Feb. 2 between 4 a.m. and 9 p.m.

“Dangerous rip currents and breaking waves due to elevated surf expected,” the NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA said. “Additionally, very minor coastal flooding will be possible around the morning high tides on Sunday and Monday, highest Monday. High tides will be around 6.8 to 7.1 feet between 815 and 900 am both days.”

“There is an increased risk of ocean drowning. Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea. Waves can wash people off beaches and rocks, and capsize small boats nearshore. Minor coastal flooding of beaches,” according to the NWS. “Remain out of the water due to hazardous swimming conditions, or stay near occupied lifeguard towers. Rock jetties can be deadly in such conditions, stay off the rocks.”

For more local weather alerts, visit our Weather Advisory page

Santa Susana Mountains, Western San Gabriel Mountains/Highway 14 Corridor and Eastern San Gabriel Mountains are included in a high wind warning released by the National Weather Service on Sunday at 12:39 a.m. The warning is in effect until 1 p.m.

“Northeast winds 25 to 40 mph with gusts up to 65 mph expected,” the NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA said. “Wet soils will increase the likelihood of damage due to fallen trees. Will likely be replaced with a Wind Advisory this afternoon.”

“Damaging winds could blow down trees and power lines and recently saturated soils will increase this risk. Widespread power outages are possible. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles,” according to the NWS. “Remain in the lower levels of your home during the windstorm, and avoid windows. Watch for falling debris and tree limbs. Use caution if you must drive.”

Emergency alerts in Southern California

For “considerable or catastrophic” hazards, emergency alerts will be sent to all enabled mobile phones in the area. To monitor lesser risk, residents are advised to sign up for county alert systems and to monitor agencies’ social media. How to sign up for alerts in your area:

LA County

Orange County

Riverside County

San Bernardino County

High wind alerts: Your guide to safety

When it comes to high wind alerts, staying informed is essential. The NWS categorizes high wind alerts into three levels, each signifying a different degree of risk:

High wind warning: Take action!

Sustained, strong winds with even stronger gusts are happening. Seek shelter. If you are driving, keep both hands on the wheel and slow down.

Wind advisory: Take action!

Strong winds are occurring but are not so strong as to warrant a High wind warning. Objects that are outdoors should be secured and caution should be taken if driving.

High wind watch: Be prepared!

Sustained, strong winds are possible. Secure loose outdoor items and adjust plans as necessary so you’re not caught outside.

How to prepare before strong winds approach

• Trim tree branches away from your house and power lines.
• Secure loose gutters and shutters.
• Identify an interior room of your house, such as a basement or interior bathroom, that you can take shelter in during high wind warnings.
• If you live in a mobile home, identify a sturdy building you can go to if the NWS issues a high wind or severe thunderstorm warning.
• Charge batteries of all essential items such as cell phones and booster packs, weather radios and power tools such as a reciprocating saw, which you might need to clear debris.
• Update your emergency kit and be sure to include enough food and water to last for 3 days for each person in your home.
• Make a list of items outside your home you will need to tie down or put away so that they don’t blow away or fly through a window. When the NWS issues a high wind watch, immediately secure these items to avoid damage or injury once the wind starts picking up.

How to act during strong winds

Take shelter:

• Immediately go inside a sturdy building during a high wind warning or severe thunderstorm warning and move to an interior room or basement.
• If you are in a mobile home, move to a sturdy building before the winds pick up or the storm system reaches your location.

If caught outside or driving:

• Take shelter in your car if you are not near a sturdy building. If possible, drive to a nearby sturdy building. Otherwise, move your car to a location where it is less likely to be hit by falling trees or power lines.
• If no shelter is available avoid trees, power lines, and the side of the road. Keep in mind that power lines that are laying on the ground may be live. Do not go near them! Try to find a place that will block blowing or falling debris.
• If you are driving and aren’t near a sturdy building, hold the steering wheel with both hands and slow down.
• Keep a distance from high profile vehicles such as trucks, buses and vehicles towing trailers. One strong gust of wind can be enough to flip one of these trailers onto its side.

What to do after strong winds subside

• Do not go near downed power lines. Report downed power lines to the police.
• Be careful when handling debris that may have blown into your yard.

For more local weather alerts, visit our Weather Advisory page

Los Angeles County was placed under a wind advisory by the National Weather Service on Friday at 12:56 a.m. The advisory is valid from 10 p.m. until Saturday Nov. 22, at 10 a.m.

According to the NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA, “Northeast winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts 35 to 45 mph expected.”

“Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result,” the NWS said. “Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Use extra caution.”

The full list of affected locations includes:

• Santa Clarita Valley
• Malibu
• Western Santa Monica Mountains Recreational area
• Calabasas/Agoura Hills
• Santa Susana Mountains
• Ventura County Beaches
• Ventura County Inland Coast
• Southeastern Ventura County Valleys

Navigating high wind alerts: What each level means

When it comes to high wind alerts, understanding the levels of risk is crucial. The NWS classifies them into three distinct categories:

High wind warning: Take action!

Sustained, strong winds with even stronger gusts are happening. Seek shelter. If you are driving, keep both hands on the wheel and slow down.

Wind advisory: Take action!

Strong winds are occurring but are not so strong as to warrant a High wind warning. Objects that are outdoors should be secured and caution should be taken if driving.

High wind watch: Be prepared!

Sustained, strong winds are possible. Secure loose outdoor items and adjust plans as necessary so you’re not caught outside.

How to prepare before strong winds approach

• Trim tree branches away from your house and power lines.
• Secure loose gutters and shutters.
• Identify an interior room of your house, such as a basement or interior bathroom, that you can take shelter in during high wind warnings.
• If you live in a mobile home, identify a sturdy building you can go to if the NWS issues a high wind or severe thunderstorm warning.
• Charge batteries of all essential items such as cell phones and booster packs, weather radios and power tools such as a reciprocating saw, which you might need to clear debris.
• Update your emergency kit and be sure to include enough food and water to last for 3 days for each person in your home.
• Make a list of items outside your home you will need to tie down or put away so that they don’t blow away or fly through a window. When the NWS issues a high wind watch, immediately secure these items to avoid damage or injury once the wind starts picking up.

How to act during strong winds

Take shelter:

• Immediately go inside a sturdy building during a high wind warning or severe thunderstorm warning and move to an interior room or basement.
• If you are in a mobile home, move to a sturdy building before the winds pick up or the storm system reaches your location.

If caught outside or driving:

• Take shelter in your car if you are not near a sturdy building. If possible, drive to a nearby sturdy building. Otherwise, move your car to a location where it is less likely to be hit by falling trees or power lines.
• If no shelter is available avoid trees, power lines, and the side of the road. Keep in mind that power lines that are laying on the ground may be live. Do not go near them! Try to find a place that will block blowing or falling debris.
• If you are driving and aren’t near a sturdy building, hold the steering wheel with both hands and slow down.
• Keep a distance from high profile vehicles such as trucks, buses and vehicles towing trailers. One strong gust of wind can be enough to flip one of these trailers onto its side.

What to do after strong winds subside

• Do not go near downed power lines. Report downed power lines to the police.
• Be careful when handling debris that may have blown into your yard.

Western San Gabriel Mountains/Highway 14 Corridor and Eastern San Gabriel Mountains are under a winter weather advisory which was issued by the National Weather Service on Thursday at 2:45 a.m. The advisory is valid from 1 p.m. until Friday Nov. 21, at 4 p.m.

“Moderate snow accumulations expected: For elevations above 6000 feet, 3 to 6 inches. Local accumulations of 8 inches possible. For elevations between 5000 and 6000 feet, 1 to 3 inches possible. East wind gusts of 30 to 45 mph expected on Friday,” can be expected according to the NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA. “Additional snow is possible Friday Night into Saturday, but accumulations are expected to be light at this point. If more intense snow becomes probable, this advisory may need to be extended.”

“Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the Thursday evening and Friday morning commutes,” according to the NWS. “Slow down and use caution while traveling. Always carry chains. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1.”

Winter driving guide: Tips from the NWS for safe and sound travels

Winter weather can make driving treacherous, leading to over 6,000 weather-related vehicle fatalities and over 480,000 injuries each year. When traveling during snow or freezing rain, prioritize safety by slowing down. In near-freezing temperatures, it’s safest to assume that icy conditions exist on roadways and adjust your driving accordingly. Be cautious of ice accumulating on power lines or tree branches, which can lead to snapping and falling hazards. If possible, avoid driving in such conditions. If you must venture out, opt for routes with fewer trees and power lines. Never touch a downed power line, and immediately dial 911 if you come across one. Here are additional winter weather driving tips:

Share your travel plans:

When traveling out of town in hazardous winter weather, inform your family or friends of your destination, planned route, and estimated time of arrival.

Prepare your vehicle:

Ensure your gas tank is full and equip your vehicle with essential winter supplies, including a windshield scraper, jumper cables, a small shovel, flashlight, cell phone, blanket, extra warm clothing, drinking water, and high-calorie non-perishable food.

Stay calm when stranded:

If you become stranded, remain composed. Inform someone about your situation and location. Avoid attempting to walk to safety. Indicate that you need assistance by attaching a cloth to your car’s antenna or mirror, and make your vehicle more visible by using the dome light and flashers

Be aware of snow plows:

Keep an eye out for snow plows and provide them with ample room to pass. Only overtake a plow when you have a clear view of the road ahead.

Check road conditions:

Before embarking on your journey, check the latest road conditions to make informed travel decisions.

These winter driving tips from the NWS are your key to a safer journey on snow-covered roads. By following these guidelines, you can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and ensure your well-being during challenging winter weather.

Yosemite is under a winter storm warning which was released by the National Weather Service on Sunday at 12:59 a.m. The warning is valid from Monday 11 a.m. until Wednesday Oct. 15, at 5 p.m.

The NWS Hanford CA states to be ready for, “Snow levels 6000 – 7000 feet. Heavy snow possible above these levels with total snow accumulations 12 to 24 inches.”

“Visibilities may drop below 1/4 mile due to falling and blowing snow. Travel could be very difficult to impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Monday evening and Tuesday morning commutes,” according to the NWS. “If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for the state you are calling from can be obtained by calling 5 1 1. Persons should delay all travel if possible. If travel is absolutely necessary, drive with caution and be prepared for sudden changes in conditions. Leave plenty of room between you and the motorist ahead of you, and allow extra time to reach your destination. Avoid sudden braking or acceleration, and be especially cautious on hills or when making turns. Make sure your car is winterized and in good working order.”

The full list of affected locations includes:

• Yosemite
• Upper San Joaquin River
• Kaiser to Rodgers Ridge
• Kings Canyon NP
• Grant Grove area
• Sequoia NP
• South End of the Upper Sierra

Emergency alerts in Southern California

For “considerable or catastrophic” hazards, emergency alerts will be sent to all enabled mobile phones in the area. To monitor lesser risk, residents are advised to sign up for county alert systems and to monitor agencies’ social media. How to sign up for alerts in your area:

LA County

Orange County

Riverside County

San Bernardino County

Mastering winter roads: Guidance from the NWS for safe winter travel

Winter’s icy grip often turns roads treacherous, leading to over 6,000 weather-related vehicle fatalities and more than 480,000 injuries each year. When you find yourself on snowy or freezing rain-slicked roads, your top priority should be safety. Slow down and exercise caution. In temperatures near freezing, it’s prudent to assume icy patches on the road and adjust your driving accordingly. Be on alert for ice accumulating on power lines and tree branches, as they may break and fall. If possible, avoid driving in these conditions altogether. But if you must venture out, choose routes with fewer trees and power lines, and never touch a downed power line. If you encounter one, dial 911 immediately. Here are additional winter driving tips from the NWS:

Share your travel plans:

When traveling out of town in hazardous winter weather, inform your family or friends of your destination, planned route, and estimated time of arrival.

Prepare your vehicle:

Ensure your gas tank is full and equip your vehicle with essential winter supplies, including a windshield scraper, jumper cables, a small shovel, flashlight, cell phone, blanket, extra warm clothing, drinking water, and high-calorie non-perishable food.

Stay calm when stranded:

If you become stranded, remain composed. Inform someone about your situation and location. Avoid attempting to walk to safety. Indicate that you need assistance by attaching a cloth to your car’s antenna or mirror, and make your vehicle more visible by using the dome light and flashers

Be aware of snow plows:

Keep an eye out for snow plows and allow them ample room to pass. Only overtake a plow when you have a clear view of the road ahead.

Check road conditions:

Before embarking on your journey, verify the current road conditions to make informed travel decisions.

Stay safe on wintry roads with these valuable winter driving tips from the NWS, and reduce the risk of accidents during challenging weather conditions.

Originally Published: October 12, 2025 at 1:04 AM PDT

On Monday at 1:48 a.m. the National Weather Service issued a high surf advisory in effect until Wednesday Oct. 1, at 6 p.m. for Malibu.

“Dangerous rip currents and breaking waves of 5 to 8 feet expected on south-facing beaches,” according to the NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA. “Particularly vulnerable south- facing beaches may see shallow coastal flooding over normally dry beach areas.”

“There is an increased risk for ocean drowning. Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea. Large breaking waves can cause injury, wash people off beaches and rocks, and capsize small boats near shore,” the NWS said. “Remain out of the water due to dangerous surf conditions, or stay near occupied lifeguard towers. Rock jetties can be deadly in such conditions, stay off the rocks.”

Originally Published: September 29, 2025 at 1:53 AM PDT