Second round of rainfall expected to hit San Diego County Friday

A second round of rainfall is expected to hit San Diego County on Friday, and authorities Thursday were gearing up for possible flooding.

“We’re anticipating heavy rains and we are fully staffed and well prepared and will have Lifeguard Swift Water Rescue teams positioned at different fire stations throughout San Diego, as well as having sandbags available,” San Diego Fire-Rescue Department spokesman Jason Shanley said. “We’re good to go.”

Shanley added that lifeguard crews will be on standby.

“If you don’t have to go outside in bad weather — don’t,” he said. “Try to do what you can to prepare. Also, pay more attention, really look out for things, and drive slower.”

Gov. Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in multiple California counties, including San Diego, due to the potential risks brought on by heavy rainfall and strong winds.

The storm caused power outages Wednesday that deprived electricity to as many as 10,000 customers across San Diego County stretching from Del Mar to Chula Vista. San Diego Gas & Electric officials said Thursday that power had been restored to nearly all those customers, and crews were working to safely restore service to the remaining customers as quickly as possible.

The next period of significant rain for the San Diego area is expected Friday with total rainfall expected to be between 0.25 to 0.75 inches near the coast and in the valleys, and 2 to 3 inches in the mountains, according to the National Weather Service.

Showers are expected to increase across the area starting around dawn Friday, then decrease late Friday night into Saturday morning.

Motorists are advised to drive at reduced speeds and avoid driving through standing water and flooded roadways. They are also advised to avoid parking under trees or power lines due to the potential that objects could fall amid high winds.

SDG&E officials also warned against approaching downed power lines during the upcoming storm, advising people to call 911 or SDG&E at 1-800-411-7343 if a downed line is spotted.