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

Heavy rain and gusty winds moved through San Diego County Monday, leading fire crews to stage swiftwater rescue teams as a precaution, though officials said most calls were for traffic accidents.

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

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

• Watch for wind-related dangers: With strong winds, Hadley warned people to stay clear of downed trees and power lines and to avoid parking near them. “Always assume power lines are energized,” she said. Residents should stay far away and call San Diego Gas & Electric or 911. 
• Respect floodwaters: “Do not underestimate the power of water,” Hadley said. “Even 6 inches can sweep people off their feet, and 12 inches of fast-moving water can sweep a vehicle away.” She advised avoiding flood-prone areas such as Fashion Valley when possible. “If you can take an alternate route, don’t go through it. Nothing is worth your life.”
• Drive cautiously: Hadley urged motorists not to cross flooded roads and to slow down if travel is necessary. “There is nothing more important than your safety on the road,” she said. Drivers should leave extra braking distance and ensure windshield wipers are working properly.
• Report hazards: City crews are proactively monitoring storm drains and known trouble spots, but residents are encouraged to report issues through the city’s Get It Done app. “Report hazards that you see on the Get It Done app. When it’s put 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, according to the National Weather Service.

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

West winds are forecast to strengthen Tuesday evening into Wednesday, followed by another round of rain and lower-elevation mountain snow.

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