BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — The death toll from the deadly flash flood in Texas has surpassed 100 and could continue rising, with rescue teams continuing their search for missing individuals. The National Weather Service (NWS) has urged residents across the nation, including those in Kern County, to be prepared for similar natural disasters.
Felix Castro, a warning coordination meteorologist at the NWS in Hanford, California, emphasized the potential for flash flooding in any county or city. “There is always a potential for flash flooding across any county, any city,” said Castro. He advised residents to have an emergency plan in place, suggesting simulations to prepare for unexpected scenarios. “Let’s do a simulation. What happens if, you know, right now at my house…there is a river and it gets close to our house, what do we do?” he said.
Flash floods can occur unexpectedly, even on sunny days. Ilya Neyman, chief meteorologist at Eyewitness News, highlighted the possibility of flash floods in Kern County, particularly during the summer monsoon season. “Everybody knows about the winter season, that’s the traditional season, but many people are not aware of a summer flash flood season,” Neyman said. He explained that moisture surges from Mexico during July, August, and September can lead to severe thunderstorms and sudden flash flooding.
Neyman identified the Kern River Valley as particularly susceptible to flash flooding, with potential for significant rises in the Kern River affecting the South Valley and Bakersfield. “We’ve got the Kern River Valley that’s susceptible to flash flooding,” he said.
The Integrated Public Alert and Warning System, FEMA’s national alert system, plays a crucial role in notifying the public of such dangers. “If we issue a flash flood warning at the National Weather Service, you will receive it immediately,” Castro said…