Bracing for 'Bomb Cyclone': Safe driving tips as California braces for heavy rain

As if driving in Los Angeles wasn't already challenging enough – Now, California is bracing for a "bomb cyclone" that is expected to deliver heavy rain and possible flooding.

With the heavy rain and possible flooding in mind, it's a reminder to consider staying at home Wednesday night and – if possible – avoid the roads through late Thursday afternoon. Los Angeles County is expected to see heavy rain from midnight to Thursday, 6 a.m. The area is expected to deal with very heavy rain from Thursday, 6 a.m. to noon.

But for those who don't have that options, officials across Southern California shared tips on how you can travel safely in soggy conditions.

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DRIVING IN THE RAIN?

On Wednesday, officials with the city of Chino Hills shared safety tips on driving in the rain.

Here are some of the tips they shared:

  • Never cross through water that is covering the road
  • Check your tires and wipers – make sure they are in good condition
  • Slow down when driving in adverse weather
  • Find alternate routes if possible 
  • Leave a few car lengths between you and the car in front of you
  • Turn on your lights
  • Stay in the center lanes – Puddles typically form on the shoulder and the median
  • Avoid suddenly stepping hard on the gas pedal or suddenly braking

The Inland Empire is expected to see gusts of up to 30 mph overnight with 70% chance of precipitation, according to the National Weather Service.

If you are driving and encounter a traffic signal that is not working, always treat the intersection as a 4-way stop. The Los Angeles Fire Department released a few safety tips. 

  • "No signal lights" should be treated as a 4-way stop. 
  • "Flashing red lights" should be treated as a stop sign. 
  • "Flashing yellow lights" drivers should proceed with caution.

DRIVING IN SNOW?

For those facing winter weather, officials with the city of Big Bear Lake offered the following set of advice:

  • Keep tire chains and cables in your vehicle
  • Practice putting on tire chains
  • Consider utilizing Mountain Transit's free trolley service
  • Avoid lake ice