Update: Flood Watch Issued For Yosemite National Park
The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Advisory for Mariposa County effective until 10:45 this morning. Additionally, a Flood Watch has been issued for Yosemite National Park and the eastern portion of Mariposa County until 9 PM tonight.
Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected. Minor flooding in low-lying and poor drainage areas is forecast.
At 7:37 AM, Doppler radar indicated heavy rain due to thunderstorms.
At 8:53 AM Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm near La Grange, moving south at 5 mph.
Half inch hail has been recorded.
Minor hail damage to vegetation is possible. This storm will remain over mainly rural areas of west central Mariposa and southwestern Tuolumne County.
Slow moving thunderstorms will create heavy rainfall at times with long periods of rain. –
Minor flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly in the Advisory area.
Some locations that will experience flooding include Lake McClure.
Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways. Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm. Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe shelter inside a building or vehicle. This storm may intensify, so be certain to monitor local radio stations and available television stations for additional information and possible warnings from the National Weather Service.
Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible.
Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations.
Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.
If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. Frequent cloud to ground lightning is occurring with this storm. Lightning can strike 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. Seek a safe shelter inside a building or vehicle.
Conditions are favorable for the development of weak, brief funnel clouds. This type of funnel cloud is harmless, but on rare occasions they can briefly touch down, producing wind gusts over 50 mph. If a funnel cloud is spotted move indoors and report your sighting to the National Weather Service.
You should monitor later forecasts and be prepared to take action should Flash Flood Warnings be issued.
