San Diego Fire-Rescue officials urge ‘smart actions’ during this week’s storm

Heavy rain and gusty winds moved through San Diego County on Monday, prompting firefighters to deploy swift water rescue teams as a precaution, although officials said most of the calls were for traffic accidents.

Fire Rescue in San Diego handled one call for a swift water rescue near Hazard Center Drive and northern state Route 163, but conditions were much less severe than the New Year’s storm, according to Candace Hadley, public information officer for the SDFD.

With rain and wind expected to continue throughout the week, Hadley urged residents to take “smart actions” and outlined several safety priorities:

• Be aware of wind-related hazards: During high winds, Hadley warned people to stay away from fallen trees and power lines and not to park near them. “Always assume power lines are live,” she said. Residents should stay far away and call San Diego Gas & Electric or 911.
• Respect floods: “Don’t underestimate the power of water,” Hadley said. “Even 6 inches can catch people off guard, and 12 inches of fast-moving water can sweep away a vehicle.” She recommended avoiding flood-prone areas such as Fashion Valley where possible. “If you can take an alternate route, don’t go through it. Nothing is worth your life.”
• Drive carefully: Hadley urged motorists not to cross flooded roads and to drive slower if travel is necessary. “There is nothing more important than your safety on the road,” she said. Drivers should allow an extra braking distance and ensure that the windshield wipers are working properly.
• Report hazards: City staff are proactively monitoring storm drains and known trouble spots, but residents are encouraged to report problems through the city’s Get It Done app. “Report hazards you see on the Get It Done app. When it goes on the app, our crews see it,” Hadley said.

The San Diego River is expected to reach monitor stage late Monday and high surf and wind advisories remain in effect, the San Diego River said. National Weather Service.

Forecasters expect spells of rain, wind and mountain snow throughout the week, with a slight chance of thunderstorms into early Tuesday.

Westerly winds are expected to strengthen Tuesday evening through Wednesday, followed by another round of rain and mountain snow at lower elevations.

Cooler conditions with fewer showers are expected on Thursday and Friday, with precipitation chances increasing again early next week.