The gathering storm
Get ready to get soaked, Redlanders.
According to the National Weather Service, there is a 100 percent chance of rain on Friday. Forecasters also have the area on a flash flood watch through Friday evening.
The city today advanced the usual warning when heavy rains are expected. People should steer clear of storm drains and flood control basins. Friday will not be a good day to take a stroll along the historic Zanja irrigation ditch. (A side note: If anyone knows how the Spanish word "Zanja" came to be pronounced as "sankee," please let me know.)
Also, don't try to drive across any flooded streets. Who hasn't seen news video of someone trapped on top of their car after their thinking they could ford an avenue that looks like a river.
Fire Department Battalion Chief Jim Topoleski said the city has gathered caches of sandbags to fortify property against floodwaters but isn't just handing them out somewhere.
People who expect flooding problems can request sandbags from the Police Department by calling (909) 798-7681. The city doesn't want folks to call 911 unless there they are at risk from actual flooding or there is an imminent risk of flooding.