Flash Flood Warning San Diego: What You Need to Know
A powerful storm pummeling San Diego has led to a flash flood warning and thunderstorm warming, as well as road closures.
Initially, the flash flood warning was restricted only to North San Diego County, but was extended to include the entire region later on Monday, according to the National Weather Service.
The NWS even sent out an emergency alert to San Diego County residents warning them of the danger: “This is a dangerous and life-threatening situation. Do not attempt to travel unless you are fleeing an area subject to flooding or under an evacuation order.”
As of 10:46 a.m. on Monday, the NWS said that there have been “multiple reports of heavy rain and flooded roadways, including in Coronado and National City.” Additionally, portions of the 163, 805, and I-5 were flooded.
The report also indicated that between 1 to 1.75 inches of rain had fallen by 11 a.m., with some regions getting up to 2 inches of rain. Additional rainfall of up to 1 inch is expected in some regions.
Although San Diego weather in January is generally mild, rain is not uncommon during this part of the year. The storm on Monday, which indicated the flash flood warning, is a relatively rare occurrence, however.
There have also been reports of closed roadways in North County, including portions of state route 78 that were closed due to flooding. Authorities also closed at least two lanes of the I-5 near Palomar Airport Road in Carlsbad.
Earlier in the morning, the NWS also sent out a severe thunderstorm alert for areas in the South Bay, including Chula Vista, National City, La Presa, and other parts of East County.
The NWS urged residents to avoid walking or driving through floodwaters and move to higher ground if possible.
If you’re in town but bummed about the bad weather, check out our itinerary for a rainy day in La Jolla!
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Mike Peterson is a writer, editor, and strategist based in San Diego. When he’s not writing and editing the La Jolla news, you can often find him practicing yoga, rock climbing, or exploring the outdoors with his wife and dog.
