San Diego, CA – A Flood Watch is in effect today, Saturday, Sept. 27, for large portions of inland Southern California as heavy rain and thunderstorms threaten to trigger flash flooding, according to the National Weather Service (NWS).
The alert covers the San Bernardino, Riverside, and San Diego County mountains, along with the Coachella Valley, San Diego County deserts, and the San Gorgonio Pass near Banning. The watch began at 11 a.m. and is expected to last through the evening.
According to the NWS, showers and thunderstorms could produce rainfall rates of 0.5 to 1 inch per hour, locally higher, with the potential to cause dangerous flooding. Burn scar areas in the San Bernardino Mountains — including the Line, Bridge, and Apple/El Dorado fire zones — are at particular risk of debris flows. In desert areas such as Palm Springs, Indio, Borrego Springs, and La Quinta, flash flooding is possible in dry washes and low-water crossings.
Officials warn residents and travelers to be prepared for mud, rocks, and debris on mountain roads, as well as sudden flooding in desert valleys and passes. Low-lying communities and flood-prone areas could see dangerous conditions within minutes of heavy downpours.
Drivers are urged not to cross flooded roadways and to remain alert for changing conditions throughout the day.
