Flash Flood Warning Issued For Inland Empire Burn Scar Areas

BANNING, CA — Thunderstorms heading toward Inland Empire communities in the area of burn scars will dump up to an inch and a half of rain, causing extensive flash flooding, the National Weather Service announced.

Doppler radar indicated heavy rains over the Apple and El Dorado burn scars on Monday afternoon, and residents should expect a half to 1.5 inches of rain.

Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly in the Banning and Beaumont areas, as well as Redlands, Yucaipa, Forest Falls, Mount San Gorgonio, Highway 38 Between Yucaipa And Onyx Summit, Mountain Home Village, Calimesa and Morongo Indian Reservation.

"There is a life threatening flash flooding possibility in the areas in and around the Apple and El Dorado burn scars," a spokesperson for the National Weather Service reported. "Heavy rainfall may cause extensive and severe flash flooding of creeks, streams and ditches."

Severe debris flows can also be anticipated across roads and driveways, they said.

If you encounter flood waters, climb to safety, and do not drive through flooded roads.

"Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads," they said. "Most flood deaths occur in vehicles."