Heavy rain throughout the Coachella Valley Thursday led to flooding, road closures and warnings for residents and visitors to stay indoors if at all possible.
With rain continuing to intensify, the Palm Springs Fire Department issued a “shelter in place” warning to all residents and visitors.
“With heavy rain and flooding like we are experiencing today, it is safer to stay off roadways and shelter in place,” Palm Springs Fire Chief Kevin Nalder said.
Road closures were widespread throughout the desert area due to the heavy rain, which caused flooding and some rockslides. Flooding was reported on eastbound Interstate 10 in Cabazon and a stretch of Highway 111 was closed in both directions in Palm Springs.
Traffic delays were expected to continue throughout the area into the evening.
In response to the rain and traffic delays, the Palm Springs Unified School District alerted parents that they could pick up their children early. Children who ride a bus to school will be supervised until the normal release time, district officials said.
Joshua Tree National Park also closed
All dirt roads were closed in Joshua Tree National Park. A flood watch will remain in effect until 10 p.m. throughout the Coachella Valley, according to the National Weather Service.