FLASH FLOODING IN EAST COUNTY

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By Miriam Raftery

August 2, 2014 (San Diego’s East County) – The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood warning for mountains and deserts in East County. Flooding is already occurring this afternoon on portions of Highway 79, S-2 and S-22 due to thunderstorms.  Impacted areas thus far include Borrego Springs, Banner Grade, Julian, Ocotillo Wells, Ranchita, Santa Ysabel, Shelter Valley and Warner Springs.

Thunderstorms with heavy rain will continue through Sunday evening, producing runoff expected to cause more flooding especially along mountain streams, desert washes and recently burned areas.

Most flood deaths occur in vehicles so never drive into areas where water covers the roadway, since flood waters are usually deeper than they appear.  Just a foot of water is powerful enough to sweep a vehicle off the road.

Also be aware that lightning can travel for 10 miles or more, even in clear skies. So if thunder roars, stay indoors.


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