What to Do During a Heavy Rainstorm
 Know the difference between Watches, Advisories, and Warnings, and follow any
instructions given by the issuing agency.
o Advisories are issued when conditions are likely to occur but will not be severe
enough to prompt a warning.
o Watches mean conditions are favorable for an event and usually cover a large
area and timeframe. If a watch is issued for your area, pay attention to messages
from the National Weather Service as Watches may be upgraded to Warnings.
o Warnings mean an event is already occurring or is likely to occur immediately.
Warnings are only issued for severe events that threaten life safety. Follow
instructions from weather and public safety officials – your life may depend on it.
 Follow @NotifyLA on Twitter for emergency alerts.
 Follow any sheltering or evacuation instructions issued by local public safety officials.
 Avoid areas prone to flooding and never bypass street barriers.
 TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN® - Never attempt to drive or walk through a flooded
roadway or flowing stream. Six inches of fast-moving water can knock over an adult.
Twelve inches of rushing water can carry a car. Driving through flood waters endangers
your life and the lives of emergency responders who may have to rescue you. If
floodwaters rise around your car but the water is not moving, abandon the car and
move to higher ground if you can do so safely. But do not leave the car if it means
entering moving water.
 Secure loose items outside your home, including toys, furniture, or yard décor that
might clog your street’s storm drains and cause flooding.
 Do not touch downed power lines or any electrical equipment if you are wet or standing
in water.
 Turn off sprinkler systems for at least 72 hours after a storm.