Tips to avoid danger during summer storms

With inclement weather predicted for the Coachella Valley in the upcoming days, officials are providing tips to stay safe in case you find yourself in a troubling situation.

According to a release from Cal Fire and the Riverside County Fire Department, unstable weather conditions such as thunderstorms, heavy rainfall and hail can catch drivers off-guard, so it’s always better to make sure you’re prepared for the scenario.

Consider the following before, during and after heavy rain and thunderstorms:

Monitor weather forecasts, watches and warnings.
Heavy rainfall can produce flash flooding and debris flow in burned and unburned areas.
NEVER attempt to cross moving water on foot or in a vehicle (A person can be swept off their feet in only two inches of moving water).
In the event of imminent flash flooding, move to higher ground whenever possible.
Lighting can be deadly. Stay away from lakes, streams and other bodies of water. Electrical currents can travel through water. Also, stay clear of trees, power lines and other tall objects.
Keep sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting and other needs handy for addressing storm water issues. Most Riverside County fire stations have limited supplies of sandbags for homeowners in the event of imminent flooding.
Know your weather and roadway safety resources. Monitor these websites constantly before, during and after the storm: Riverside County Fire Department; California Highway Patrol; CALTRANS; National Weather Service; Riverside County Roads.

You can also find up-to-the-minute weather alerts and news from KESQ & CBS Local 2’s weather team.