5 Freeway north of LA is under an updated flood watch which was 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 adds to expect, “Significant and widespread flooding caused by excessive rainfall wi ll 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 Breaking 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 doesn’t guarantee that flooding will occur, but it signifies that the possibility exists. 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: When local authorities issue an evacuation order, promptly comply. Before leaving, secure your home by locking it. Disconnect utilities and appliances: If time allows, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This reduces the risk of 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 sounds, evacuate without delay. Do not enter water that may carry an electrical charge. Stay away from 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 high ground if 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. When heavy rain occurs, there is a potential for flooding, particularly in areas that are low-lying or prone to floods. It is crucial to never drive through water on the road, even if it appears shallow. According to the NWS, as little as 12 inches of fast-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: 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: If it is raining and the roads are wet, slow down. Take your foot off the accelerator and let your speed drop gradually. Never use the brakes suddenly because this may cause the car to skid. 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 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: 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. 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. For more local weather alerts, visit our Weather Advisory page ...read more read less