Flood warnings are disseminated by the Emergency Alert System through local radio and television stations (KOGO-AM600, KFMB-AM760, KPBS-FM89.5, FOX6, KFBM8, KGTV10, KNSD, KSWB, KUSI, KBNT, XHAS, and KPBC) and by NOAA Weather Radio at162.40 MHz. Online you can access forecasts, weather discussions, radar information, and satellite photos through the National Weather Service flood forecast website.
The County provides real-time information regarding high water, road closures, and evacuation routes through Changeable Message Signs. Warnings may also be issued to affected residences and businesses through the ReadySanDiego Program which allows residents to register their cell phones online to receive information during an emergency. The ALERT Flood Warning System in San Diego County consists of over 100 ALERT flood warning stations, which include 14 stream gages, 10 reservoir level sensors, 90 rainfall sensors, and 13 weather stations. The ALERT rainfall data is displayed on the internet at the following address: http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/sgx/obs/rainobs.php?wfo=sgx.
A flash flood is caused by excessive rainfall in a short period of time, generally less than 6 hours. FLOOD WATCH means that flash flooding is possible within the watch area. FLASH FLOOD WARNING means that flash flooding is imminent or has been reported in the warning area and evacuation is advisable. When a flash flood warning is issued you may have 30-minutes or less to act. Therefore, you should pre-plan the actions you will take when a flood warning is issued.
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