Rain Returns to Coachella Valley: Road Closures, Free Sandbags, and What You Need to Know

Rain hit the Coachella Valley Monday night, and more is on the way, prompting road closures and pushing fire departments across the region to offer free sandbags to residents bracing for potential flooding.

North Indian Canyon Drive at the wash is currently closed due to flooding, Palm Springs announced early Tuesday morning. Other roadways in the wash area between Palm Springs and Desert Hot Springs remain open for now, though conditions could change quickly as storms continue moving through.

Desert landscapes don't absorb water the way other regions do, which means even moderate rainfall can turn streets and washes into hazards fast. City officials are urging drivers to slow down, turn on headlights, and — most importantly — stay away from flooded roads entirely.

Where to Get Free Sandbags

Fire stations throughout the valley are providing sandbags to help residents protect their property. Here's where you can pick them up:

Palm Springs — All five fire stations:

• 277 N. Indian Canyon Drive

• 300 N. El Cielo Road

• 590 E. Racquet Club Road

• 1300 La Verne Way

• 5800 E. Bolero Road

Sand is also available at Palm Springs City Hall (3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way). Residents will need to fill the bags themselves.

Cathedral City — Cathedral City Fire & EMS at 32100 Desert Vista Road

Desert Hot Springs — Two locations:

• Fire Station 37 at 65958 Pierson Boulevard

• Fire Station 98 at 69111 Hacienda Avenue

For questions, Desert Hot Springs residents can call Fire Station 37 at (760) 329-5123.

How to Stay Safe

City officials are asking residents to take a few simple steps before the next round of storms hits:

• Charge your devices. Phones, flashlights, and portable chargers should be powered up in case of outages.

• Prepare an emergency kit. Water, food, medicine, batteries, and a first-aid kit.

• Secure your home. Close windows, clear drains and gutters, and bring outdoor items inside.

• Avoid flooded areas. Desert washes can flash flood in minutes. Never drive through standing water.

• Stay informed. Follow local news and your city's social media for updates.

Valley can sign up for emergency alerts at rivcoready.org/alert-rivco. 

What's Next for Weather

NBC Palm Springs meteorologist Jerry Steffen says the valley should see a break from rain Tuesday afternoon, but another system is expected to move through late Tuesday night into Wednesday morning. A third system could bring more rain on Thursday.

Road conditions will be updated as more information becomes available. Stay right here with NBC Palm Springs for the latest on the upcoming storm systems this week.