Storms expected, flash floods possible

SAN DIEGO - Showers and isolated thunderstorms expected this weekend could raise the risk for flash floods in burned areas extending from San Diego County's mountains and deserts through Riverside County, forecasters said today.

National Weather Service meteorologists said increasing monsoonal moisture would bring periods of showers and isolated thunderstorms through Sunday evening.

A flash flood watch was issued for recently burned areas in the mountains and deserts, which means conditions may develop that lead to dangerous flash flooding.

The amount of precipitation needed to produce a flash flood in newly burned areas is three-tenths of an inch in 30 minutes, according to the NWS. Forecasters said any thunderstorm that occurs through Sunday evening could produce that amount.

The weather service advised area residents to monitor forecasts and to be prepared to take action if a flash flood warning is issued.

In south and southwest facing coastal areas in North County and from Point Loma to La Jolla this weekend, strong rip currents and elevated surf are expected, according to the NWS.

The surf and rip currents could cause dangerous conditions, especially for inexperienced swimmers, and forecasters advised beachgoers to obey posted warning signs and talk to a lifeguard before swimming.

Evening high tides of above seven feet combined with the elevated surf could also lead to minor tidal overflow, the NWS said.

Water will likely wash into normally dry low-lying areas, such as along The Strand in Oceanside, and possibly into nearby streets and parking lots, according to the weather service.