As Southern California braces for the extra rain expected from the El Nino effect, so is Joshua Tree national Park. Reporter Sara Snyder says…
Joshua Tree National Park rangers are taking a pro-active approach to what scientists say could be the strongest El Nino on record. Staff preparations include a variety of planning scenarios ranging from dam safety, extreme weather rescues, to road and transportation issues. Superintendent David Smith will also consider preemptive closures if a forecast seems to warrant it in order to ensure visitor safety. Hikers should avoid washes and arroyos when rain is forecast. Motorists are reminded to never drive through moving water on flooded roads. “Turn around, don’t drown.” It can take only 6 inches of swiftly moving water to knock over an adult, 12 inches to carry off a small car, and 2 feet to carry away most other passenger vehicles.
