Weather Alert – U.S. Consulate Tijuana – Heavy Rain (Feb 14, 2019)
Location: Northern Baja California
Event: The U.S. Consulate advises U.S. citizens that the Mexican Civil Protection Agency and the U.S. National Weather Service have both issued weather advisories for heavy rain through late afternoon on Friday, February 15. Predictions are for several inches of rain, which at times may be heavy.
U.S. National Weather Service issued a Flash Flood Watch for southwest California including San Diego County coastal areas, mountains, and valleys through Thursday evening. This weather will occur in northwest Baja California, as well. Heavy rain combined with excessive run off from the coastal mountain slopes and saturated soils could trigger flash flooding of low-lying areas, urbanized street flooding, and debris flows. Debris flows are most likely Thursday afternoon and evening.
The Director of Tijuana Civil Protection tweeted that forecasts suggest these rains will be the worst in the past 25 years and could affect not only Tijuana but also Tecate, Rosarito, and Ensenada to El Rosario, including the mountains of Juarez and San Pedro Martin. Area Mexican schools have been closed on Thursday and Friday as a precaution.
The Tijuana Consulate General expects to operate during normal hours and offer routine visa, passport, and other consular services.
Actions to Take:
- If possible, avoid driving in dangerous weather conditions.
- While driving in the rain or on wet roads, decrease your speed and practice safe driving techniques. Remember that proper steering is important, especially considering the many hills in the area. Tijuana is susceptible to landslides and roads being washed away by rain.
- Refrain from crossing rivers or streams by car or on foot since accumulated water can be deeper than it appears. Attempting to cross bodies of water may flood the engine and stall your vehicle.
- Strong undercurrents may not be visible from the surface. Rather than cross, we encourage you to seek an alternate route or wait in a safe location until water levels subside.
- At home, avoid storing items near water drains. This could cause a blockage during periods of heavy rain and lead to flooding.
- Plan your routes accordingly by avoiding roads with low elevation and high runoff.
- Be aware of downed power lines or trees that could cause hazards while driving or walking.
- Stay informed of weather and road conditions through media resources, and keep your cellular phones charged and accessible.
- Ensure that your residential emergency kits are well stocked with food and supplies, and plan for power outages or periods without potable water.
Assistance:
U.S. Consulate General Tijuana
(Within Mexico) 664-977-2000
Acstijuana@state.gov
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
Mexico Country Information
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