With storms possible this week, the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) is reminding everyone of the potential danger related to flash flooding and stormwater flow in the Whitewater River/Coachella Valley Stormwater Channel and washes.
Even when it is not raining on the valley floor, rain in nearby mountains can result in heavy water flow in a short period of time. Take extra caution when crossing, walking or playing in the channel or washes before or during an impending storm.
A number of roads cross the stormwater channels or washes, so it’s important for drivers to understand that as little as one foot of water can cause a car or truck to lose traction and float downstream. Driving can be especially treacherous at night when it’s difficult to determine the depth of water. Drivers should always obey law enforcement-imposed road closures and detours.
According to the National Weather Service, a very moist and unstable air mass currently in place over Southern California will interact with several disturbances moving over the region from the southeast, to produce occasional showers and thunderstorms through Wednesday evening.
If measurable rain occurs in the valley, it’s prohibited to run sprinklers. Please keep them off for a minimum of 48 hours following the rain to help conserve water.
The Coachella Valley Water District is a public agency governed by a five-member board of directors. The district provides domestic and irrigation water, agricultural drainage, wastewater treatment and reclamation services, regional storm water protection, groundwater management and water conservation. It serves approximately 109,000 residential and business customers across 1,000 square miles, located primarily in Riverside County, but also in portions of Imperial and San Diego counties.
