Riverside County was under an unprecedented tropical storm warning Saturday, as Hurricane Hilary moved toward Southern California off the Baja California coast and forecasters warned of dangerous flooding in the Inland Empire.
Hilary was at Category 2 strength Saturday afternoon and was expected to further weaken to a tropical storm by the time it reaches Southern California, but forecasters say the storm will still pack quite a punch.
A flood watch was in effect until Monday afternoon for much of Riverside County, and residents were advised to remain sheltered this weekend, according to the National Weather Service.
Forecasters expected tropical moisture Saturday evening, leading to areas of showers and thunderstorms pushing westward overnight. The impact of the storm will peak from Sunday morning through Sunday evening. Rain chances begin to taper off through Monday evening for most areas, according to the NWS.
Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Low-water crossings may be flooded.
“Unnecessary travel is discouraged on Sunday due to the high flooding potential,” forecasters said. “Emergency plans should include the potential for extreme flooding from heavy rain. Evacuations and rescues are likely.”
The NWS warned residents to secure porches, carports and unanchored mobile homes in coastal and valley locations.
Some areas in the mountain and deserts could see over 2 inches of rain per hour during the peak storm period, and up to 10 inches total. Low desert areas could receive 7 inches of rain, with valleys areas getting up to 3 inches.
Those living in areas in danger of flooding quickly were advised to prepare to evacuate.
A tropical storm hasn’t landed in Southern California since 1939, according to forecasters.