5 Freeway north of LA is included in an updated flood watch issued by the National Weather Service on Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. The watch is in effect until Friday Dec. 26, at 4 p.m.

The NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA says to expect, “Significant and widespread flooding caused by excessive rainfall will be likely, with potential debris flow impacts across recent burn scars.”

“Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Mud and debris flows will be possible across foothill and mountain areas, including recent burn scars,” 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.”

The full list of affected locations includes:

5 Freeway corridor near Santa Clarita
Cuyama Valley
Catalina/Santa Barbara Islands
Santa Clarita Valley
San Luis Obispo County Beaches
San Luis Obispo County Inland Central Coast
Santa Lucia Mountains
Southern Salinas Valley
San Luis Obispo County Interior Valleys
San Luis Obispo County Mountains
Santa Barbara County Central Coast Beaches
Santa Barbara County Inland Central Coast
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
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
Southeastern Ventura County Valleys
Santa Susana Mountains
Southern Ventura County Mountains
Northern Ventura County Mountains
Western San Gabriel Mountains/Highway 14 Corridor
Eastern San Gabriel Mountains
Western Antelope Valley Foothills
Eastern Antelope Valley Foothills
Antelope Valley
San Gabriel Valley

Deciphering advisories, watches, and warnings: Understanding weather alerts

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 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 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:

Seek 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.

Follow 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.

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.

Stay away from floodwaters:

Never attempt to walk through floodwaters. Even just 6 inches of swiftly moving water can forcefully knock you off your feet.

Seek higher ground when trapped:

Should you become trapped by moving water, reach the highest point possible and dial 911 to contact emergency services.

During heavy rain, flooding is possible, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Never drive through water on the road, even if it does not appear to be deep. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, according to the NWS. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.

Driving through downpours: Safety guidelines for wet roads

When heavy rain strikes, safety is paramount. Equip yourself with these guidelines from the NWS to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards:

Beware of rapid water flow:

Avoid parking or walking in close proximity to culverts or drainage ditches, as the swiftly moving water during heavy rain can potentially carry you away.

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 stay cautious:

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

Visibility matters:

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The first half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mix of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Take care when passing them as well; if you must pass, do so with caution.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected 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.

In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.

For more local weather alerts, visit our Weather Advisory page