Severe Thunderstorm and Flash Flood Warning canceled for Cranston Fire-affected areas
Severe Thunderstorm and Flash Flood Warning issued for the areas affected by the Cranston Fire.
The severe thunderstorm warning lasted until 4 p.m. for 60 MPH wind gusts and up to quarter size hail.
The flash flood warning was expected to last until 5:45 p.m. for heavy rain developing over and near Cranston Fire-affected areas. However, the warning was dropped at around 4:30 p.m. heavy rain ended, meaning flooded was no longer a threat. Flash flooding is still possible near Ramona and areas along HWY 74 going up HWY 371.
Evacuation orders were issued for the areas of Hurkey Creek, Apple Canyon, Fleming Ranch and Strawberry Creek. Caltrans had also closed HWY 74 from Mountain Center to Hemet for nearly two hours. The California Highway Patrol confirmed both orders have been dropped.
As we reported on Monday, the absence of roots and vegetation on the charred hillsides has increased the threat of mudslides, flash floods, and debris flow in the area.
“It’s always a concern for us, especial when you have a burn scar the size of the Cranston Fire,” Helli Lombardo, public information officer for Caltrans District 8, said on Monday.
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