A forecast of scattered thunderstorms that could bring heavy rainfall to mountain communities affected by the Cranston Fire led the National Weather Service Thursday to issue a flash flood watch for the region, including the Coachella Valley and San Gorgonio Pass.
The flood warning, in effect until 8 p.m., covers the San Bernardino National Forest, recently besieged by the 13,139-acre arson-caused Cranston fire, as well as the Coachella Valley and the San Gorgonio Pass.
The watch warns of heavy rainfall, “with isolated flash flooding possible.”
A similar warning was issued Wednesday afternoon for residents living in the Cranston Fire burn area. An evacuation order was issued for some residents, but was lifted after about an hour when rainfall in the area ceased.
The threat of flooding is most pronounced for those living on or near hillsides or mountain slopes. Residents in such areas “should be prepared for possible debris flows,” which can occur “at any time, even during periods with little or no rain falling,” according to the NWS.
Forecasters also said there is “particular concern for the Cranston and Valley fire burns scars,” where there’s increased potential for flash flooding and debris flows.
Regional rainfall was expected to decrease starting Friday afternoon, but could return around Monday or Tuesday, following a sunny weekend, forecasters said.