The National Weather Service is tracking a major storm system moving in from the Pacific and warns of hazardous weather conditions for Irvine and elsewhere in Southern California beginning Friday morning and continuing through Saturday. High winds, moderate to heavy rains, and potential flooding are forecast. The storm will create high surf along the beaches through the weekend.
A high wind watch is in effect from 7:00 a.m. Friday through 7:00 a.m. Saturday. Southerly winds with gusts of 35 to 50 mph are expected at lower elevations, and sustained winds along the coast could reach or exceed 30 mph. The winds could fell trees and powerlines, and possibly cause structural damage. Driving could be hazardous due to fallen debris and even trees on the roadways. High-profile vehicles will also experience dangerous driving conditions due to strong cross-winds.
A flash flood watch is in effect from noon on Friday to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday. The rain is forecast to begin across Orange and San Bernardino Counties during the day on Friday, then spread east and south through Friday evening. The period of greatest impact is forecast to be Friday evening through the overnight hours with widespread moderate to heavy rain forecast. The current forecast calls for 2 to 4 inches of rain in Orange County.
Please use extra caution while walking or driving or parking near trees, and exercise caution while driving in low-lying areas.
For more information, see:
http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?lat=33.66945604600045&lon=-117.82310868999969
Be safe, and please report any safety-related concerns to the Facilities Management Service Desk at 824-5444.
Marc A. Gomez
Associate Vice Chancellor
Facilities Management and Environmental Health & Safety
Jorge Cisneros
Chief
UCI Police Department
