Inyo County under a flash flood warning Sunday morning – unusual damage threat

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The NWS Las Vegas NV issued a flash flood warning at 4:33 a.m. on Sunday in effect until 7:30 a.m. for Inyo County.

“At 4:33 a.m., Doppler radar and automated rain gauges indicated heavy rain falling across the warned area. Between 0.25 and 0.75 inches of rain have fallen. 0.62 inches has fallen at Stovepipe Wells in the past 2 hours. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly,” says the NWS. “Life threatening flash flooding of creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses.”

Locations impacted by the warning include Furnace Creek, Stovepipe Wells, Badwater Basin and Texas Springs Campground.

The NWS states, “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding. Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads. Flooding is occurring or is imminent. It is important to know where you are relative to streams, rivers, or creeks which can become killers in heavy rains. Campers and hikers should avoid streams or creeks.”

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This warning is in effect until 7:30 a.m.

Recommendations from the NWS for staying safe during a flood

If you live in a flood-prone area or are camping in a low-lying area, get to higher ground immediately. If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Lock your home when you leave. If you have time, disconnect utilities and appliances. Don’t go into a basement, or any room, if water covers the electrical outlets or if cords are submerged. If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping noises, get out. Stay out of water that may have electricity in it. Don’t walk through flood waters. It only takes 6 inches of moving water to knock you off your feet. If you are trapped by moving water, move to the highest possible point and call 911 if possible.

During heavy rainfall, there is a risk of flooding, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Remember to never drive through water on the road, even if it seems shallow. According to the NWS, as little as 12 inches of rapidly flowing water can carry away most cars.

What steps to follow when driving in the rain?

  • Switch on headlights – Even during daylight hours, using headlights can enhance visibility and signal your presence to other drivers.
  • While on the road – Opt for the middle lanes and remain on higher ground. Rainwater tends to gather along the road edges.
  • Avoid puddles – Driving into puddles or low rainwater areas can lead to vehicles hydroplaning or losing control.
  • Maintain a safe distance from large vehicles – Trucks or buses can produce a water spray that hampers visibility.
  • Steer clear of flooded areas – When coming to a flooded road, turn around and head back. Flash flooding currents are strong and can sweep drivers off roadways. Driving through deep water can also affect a vehicle’s mechanical and electrical systems.

What is hydroplaning?

Hydroplaning happens when a vehicle starts sliding uncontrollably on wet roads.

This happens when water in front of the tire builds up faster than the vehicle’s weight can push water out of the way. The water pressure then causes the vehicle to rise and slide on a thin layer of water between the tires and the road, making the driver lose control. Hydroplaning is most commonly attributed to three factors:

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  1. Vehicle speed – When a vehicle’s speed increases, the tire-traction grip and ability to control the vehicle decreases. Drive at a reduced speed during wet weather.
  2. Water depth – The deeper the water, the sooner a vehicle loses traction on the road. It doesn’t matter how deep the water is, even a thin layer can lead to hydroplaning.
  3. Tire tread depth – Checking your tire tread before hitting the road is important, as low or no tread can lead to sliding.

In the event of your vehicle hydroplaning, here’s what to know:

  • Ease off the accelerator – Step off the gas to slow down the vehicle until the tires find traction.
  • Turn into the skid – Turning into the skid can help the vehicle’s tires realign to regain control.
  • Make sure the tires reconnect with the road – During the skid, wait until the tires reconnect with the road and then gently straighten the wheels to regain control.
  • Brake gently as needed – Brake normally if the vehicle has anti-lock brakes and pump brakes gently if in an older vehicle.

Source: The National Weather Service

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This story was originally published October 11, 2026 at 4:38 AM.

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