POTENTIAL COASTAL FLOODING, HIGH SURF AND RIP CURRENTS THIS WEEKEND

County urges residents and beachgoers to stay alert to possible dangers

Los Angeles County officials are urging residents and beachgoers to take precautions this weekend as high surf, dangerous rip currents and potential coastal flooding are forecast along the coastline. Rain and isolated thunderstorms could also create hazardous conditions across the region.

Southern California will see remnants from previous Hurricane Rachel having some effects on Los Angeles County, the National Weather Service – Los Angeles/Oxnard Office states that tropical influences will still impact the region in the form of dangerous rip currents, high surf and coastal flooding during the mid-morning high tides, especially along south-facing shores (especially Long Beach, Malibu, and Avalon). Additionally, moderate risk of rain and isolated thunderstorms over the weekend may dampen outdoor plans and create hazardous road conditions as people travel throughout the region to partake in activities.

In anticipation of the high surf and potential coastal flooding, the Los Angeles County Department of Beaches and Harbors (DBH) has been taking preventive measures along County beaches. These efforts include constructing and maintaining protective sand berms, relocating vulnerable lifeguard towers farther from the shoreline and monitoring areas susceptible to erosion. DBH is also coordinating with Los Angeles County Fire Department and other agencies to monitor conditions and respond as needed.

Here are some recommendations to keep you and your families safe:

Beach safety

• Check in with the nearest lifeguard for daily ocean conditions and hazards before entering the water.
• Know your limits, swim or surf in front of an open lifeguard tower and never swim or surf alone.
• Keep a safe distance from piers and stay off of rocks and jetties.
• Never turn your back to the ocean.
• Stay out of the water near storm drains or areas identified by the Department of Public Health under Ocean Water Use Warnings.

Rain safety

• Follow all instructions from emergency responders and emergency alert notifications.
• Ensure your vehicle is safe to operate during wet weather. Make sure your tires, brakes, and windshield wipers are in proper working condition. Drive cautiously and slow down. Many roadways will be wet and slippery.
• Stay away from flood control channels, catch basins, canyons, and natural waterways vulnerable to flooding during periods of heavy rain.
• Do not attempt to cross flooded areas and never enter moving water on foot or in a vehicle. As little as 6 inches of water can knock over and carry away an adult, and 18-24 inches of water can carry away most large SUVs, vans and trucks. “Turn around, don’t drown!”
• If flooding traps you in your vehicle, stay in your vehicle (if possible) and call 9-1-1.
• Keep at least 100 feet away from downed power lines and electrical wires. Call
  9-1-1 to report downed lines.

Residents are encouraged to take precautions to keep themselves and others safe. Remember to monitor radio and TV news closely for information about weather conditions and the potential for flooding in your area.

Visit ready.lacounty.gov for more preparedness and safety information. Register for emergency notifications and alerts by visiting alert.lacounty.gov and visit lacounty.gov/emergency for up-to-date emergency incident information.