A hazardous weather outlook, including flash flood watches, has been issued for the Malibu area by the National Weather Service. The flood watch warning will remain in effect through 6 p.m., today.
Heavy rain and gusty winds from a series of Pacific storms are predicted to affect the area throughout the weekend, according to the National Weather Service. Isolated thunderstorms with gusty winds and small hail might accompany some of the storms. In addition to warnings for those in burn areas, the storms with gale force winds will cause hazardous conditions for mariners today as well. Warnings of waterspouts have also been issued.
Last night, a waterspout moved onshore and became a tornado, ripping off a roof of a building near the air traffic control tower at Point Mugu’s naval airfield.
The storm conditions are predicted to last through the weekend until Monday, according to NWS. The heaviest showers will take place Saturday afternoon through early Sunday morning, and the NWS states that the possible rainfall rates of one half inch to one inch per hour will be high enough to cause flash flooding today, as well as mud and debris flow near recent burn areas.
A flash flood watch means that conditions could lead to flash flooding, which is extremely dangerous.
Persons living in or below the watch area should remain alert and follow directions of emergency preparedness officials; monitor forecasts and be prepared to take action if a flash flood warning is issued, states the NWS. Evacuations should begin immediately without waiting for instructions, if heavy flows of water or mud and debris are observed.
—Laura Tate