Yosemite is the focus of a flood watch released at 12:22 p.m. on Wednesday by the National Weather Service. The watch is valid from Thursday 11 a.m. until Friday Sept. 19, at 8 p.m.
According to the NWS Hanford CA, “Flash flooding and debris flows caused by excessive rainfall are possible over the Sierra Nevada including the Basin and French Burn Scars and the Garnet Fire.”
“Heavy rainfall over the Sierra Nevada including the Basin and French Burn Scars and the Garnet Fire is expected up to and during the period of the watch. Residents near the Basin and French Burn Scars and the Garnet Fire should prepare for potential flooding impacts. Be sure to stay up to date with information from local authorities. Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations,” according to the NWS. “You should monitor later forecasts and be prepared to take action should Flash Flood Warnings be issued.”
The full list of affected locations includes:
Yosemite Yosemite Valley Mariposa Madera Foothills Mariposa-Madera Lower Sierra Fresno-Tulare Foothills Fresno-Tulare Lower Sierra San Joaquin River Canyon Upper San Joaquin River Kaiser to Rodgers Ridge Kings Canyon NP Grant Grove area Sequoia NPBreaking down weather alerts: advisories, watches, and warnings
Flash flood warning: Take action!A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is either imminent or already occurring. In flood-prone areas, it’s crucial to move immediately to higher ground. A flash flood is a sudden and violent inundation that can develop within minutes to hours, and it can even happen in areas not currently experiencing rainfall.
Flood warning: Take action!A flood warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.
Flood advisory: Be aware:A flood advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning. However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property.
Flood watch: Be prepared:A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.
When floods strike: Guidelines from the NWS for your protection
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’re in a flood-prone area, or if you’re camping in a low-lying spot, move to higher ground as a first step.
Adhere to evacuation orders:
If local authorities issue an evacuation order, heed it promptly. Prior to 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.
Avoid 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.
Refrain from walking in 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 higher ground when 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 periods of heavy rainfall, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas, the risk of flooding escalates. Remember this crucial advice: never attempt to drive through water on the road, even if it appears shallow. According to the NWS, as little as 12 inches of rapidly flowing water can carry away most vehicles. Prioritize your safety by staying informed and prepared.
Rainy roadways ahead: Essential safety tips for heavy rain
Heavy rainfall may lead to flooding if prolonged or if there is excessive runoff. Excessive runoff can be a result of saturated ground and/or rainfall intensity. Follow these recommendations from the NWS to 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:
Adhere to the two-second rule for maintaining a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds of distance to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness.
Reduce speed and drive cautiously:
On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. Gradually ease off the accelerator and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.
Choose your lane wisely:
Stick to the middle lanes to minimize the risk of hydroplaning. Outer lanes are more prone to accumulating water.
Prioritize visibility:
Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be particularly vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.
Watch out for slippery roads:
The initial half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mixture of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.
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. When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate 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.
Hence then, the article about yosemite placed under a flood watch thursday and friday due to intense rainfall was published today ( ) and is available on The Orange County Register ( Middle East ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( Yosemite placed under a flood watch Thursday and Friday due to intense rainfall )
Also on site :
- China's First Domestic Anti-CTLA-4 Monoclonal Antibody, Innovent's TABOSUN® (Ipilimumab N01 Injection) Received NMPA Approval
- Goldman Sachs expects layoffs to keep rising—and says investors are punishing the stocks of companies that slash staff
- Prominent Canadian Musician Says Gig Was Cancelled After Google AI Overview Wrongly Branded Him Sex Pest