NBC Palm Springs 5pm News - August 20, 2023

COACHELLA VALLEY, CA — Tropical Storm Hilary has made its presence felt across the desert, turning neighborhood streets into rushing rivers and prompting multiple emergency declarations. In what is being described as a "Stormwatch Edition" of the valley's weather history, the system has brought heavy precipitation, high winds, and a series of dramatic water rescues.

The Weather Breakdown: Rainfall and Warnings

Meteorologist Jerry Steffan reports that while the eye of the storm remains south of the valley, the system is pulling massive amounts of moisture into the region. Rainfall totals have already exceeded expectations:

• Cathedral City: Over 3 inches.

• Thermal & Palm Springs: 2 inches and climbing.

• San Jacinto Mountains: Up to 10 inches of rain possible, creating a high risk for dangerous runoff.

Currently, a Flash Flood Warning is in effect through 7:00 p.m., covering the Coachella Valley and extending into the high desert. Officials warn that an inch of rain per hour is falling in some areas. A Tropical Storm Warning and High Wind Warning also remain active as gusty southeast winds continue to buffet Southern California.

On the Front Lines: Flooding and Rescues

In Coachella and Indio, the situation is critical. Reporter Carmela Karcher described a "dramatic scene" near Avenue 48, where water reached thigh-high levels. Swift water rescue teams from the Oakland Fire Department have been deployed to the valley with rafts to assist stranded motorists and residents.

In Palm Desert, the Palm Desert Oasis Apartments saw significant flooding. Resident Daphne, a native of Puerto Rico familiar with hurricanes, described the water rushing from the pool directly into her living room and kitchen, despite having sandbags in place.

Emergency Declarations and Closures

The Palm Springs City Manager has officially declared a City Emergency due to "unprecedented rainfall" and the total flooding of local roadways. Key bridges and roads have been shut down to prevent further incidents.

Major Road Closures Include:

• Palm Springs: North Indian Canyon Drive, Gene Autry Trail, Vista Chino.

• Cathedral City: Cathedral Canyon Drive, Los Gatos Road.

• Indio/Coachella: Avenue 48 at Monroe, Highway 111 at Jackson, Dillon Road.

Public Services and Logistics:

• Schools: DSUSD, PSUSD, and Xavier Prep have all canceled classes for Monday.

• Travel: Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) has canceled flights through at least Monday morning.

• Food Delivery: DoorDash has suspended all services in the valley to ensure driver safety.

Government Response

Governor Gavin Newsom touched down in Palm Springs earlier today to coordinate with Mayor Grace Garner and other top officials. The state is monitoring the aftermath closely as the runoff from the mountains is expected to exacerbate flooding through Monday morning.

Authorities continue to stress the primary safety message of the storm: "Turn around, don't drown." Just one inch of moving water can displace a vehicle, as seen earlier today when a car was swept off Cathedral Canyon Drive.

Explore NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the valley.