Weather changes ahead on Election Day

Election day preparation is in full swing at polling locations across the valley. Voters can now cast their votes or drop off their mail-in ballots a day early which may be a good option for those looking to avoid upcoming weather changes.  

An incoming winter storm system is expected to bring rain and even mountain snow across Southern California. The Coachella Valley can expect to see nearly half an inch of rain from Monday to Wednesday. 

Due to these upcoming weather changes, the First Alert Weather Alert team has called a First Alert Weather Alert Day that will last until Wednesday morning. 

Highest rainfall totals and potential thunderstorms are expected on Tuesday which also falls on the 2022 General Election Day. Adjustments may need to be made for those working or going to the polls to cast their votes tomorrow.

Voting centers across Riverside County are all indoors but poll workers may have to respond to the weather iif high voter turnout means some have to stand outside.  

“We do have backup power at backup batteries at all of our vote centers in case there's a power outage,” said Rebecca Spencer of the Riverside County Registrar of Voters. 

From backup power to awnings for those who may be standing in the rain, Riverside County Registrar of Voters will be there to provide resources to polling centers across the valley on Election Day. 

At the Demuth Community Center, Patrick Nash, an election officer,  says they will provide voters complimentary Uber and Lyft rides; which can be a great alternative for those who want to avoid driving in the rain. 

Patrick Nash has volunteered at the polls for four years. In that time, they have seen that people will show up to the polls no matter what but want voters to know that there are always alternatives. 

“They can do their research at home, they can vote, they can drop it in the mailbox as long as it's postmarked by 8pm. Tomorrow evening, they can get there, they can have their voices heard and their votes counted, said Nash. 

The polls open tomorrow at 7 a.m. and as long as voters are in line by 8 p.m. when the polls close, they are guaranteed a vote.