Storm preparations ahead of the incoming storm

The First Alert Weather Alert Team is currently tracking an incoming storm system that is set to bring more rain to the valley. Rain regularly leads to closures of low-lying roads like North Indian Canyon Drive but the last storm lead to the closures of roads that usually serve as alternative routes.

Last week, The City of Palm Springs closed the following roads due to flooding that was reportedly caused by mountain runoff.

• N. Indian Canyon Drive is closed from Sunrise Parkway to Garnet Avenue.
• N. Gene Autry Trail is closed from E. Via Escuela to Salvia Road.
• Vista Chino is closed at the wash between Clubhouse View Drive and Cathedral City limits.

According to the Palm Springs Police Department, Vista Chino and Gene Autry have closed due to blowing wind and sand. These roads may remain closed as the incoming storm approaches the valley.

The city says that they are already making preparations to make sure that drivers stay safe on the roads.

“We have staff that continually monitors the roadways, we have staff and equipment on standby and posted in general areas around the city," said David McAbee, Palm Springs Public Works Director.

The city responds to major flooding by monitoring and putting barriers up near flooded roadways, outting out proper signs and sending out mobile alerts.

The Palm Springs Police Department also plays a big part in traffic control, although they are not always on the roads directing cars on the flooded roads.

“The reality is, because we're next to a neighboring agency, and there's additional signal lights in that city, were essentially just sending all that flow to get backed up in more traffic,” said Lt. Gustavo Araiza, Palm Springs Police Department Public Information Officer.

Stil, the department says they will be monitoring any flooded roads to ensure that people are following the law.

“ We hope that when people sign off for the license, they realize that they're committing a vehicle code infraction when they basically neglect the signs and try to go around,"said Lt. Gustavo Araiza, Palm Springs Police Department Public Information Officer.

Drivers who do not obey traffic laws on a flooded road could pay a hefty fee.

“Yeah, there's the potential there's a $238 Fine, when people fail to obey a traffic control device," said Lt. Gustavo Araiza, Palm Springs Police Department Public Information Officer.