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Joshua Tree National Park (CA)

Flooding Caused by Tropical Storm Erika

 

The remnants of Tropical Storm Erika struck the park on the afternoon of August 20th, causing sudden flashflooding in the Morongo Basin and two to three inches of rain in in an hour’s time in the town of Yucca Valley. Cars were swept away by a major flash flood that ran through the town’s streets, and homes filled up with flood waters. The town’s fire department was swamped with emergency calls for help. A BLM engine and crew from the Black Rock Interagency Fire Center, located in the park, responded to provide assistance. Over the course of about four hours, crew members assisted with numerous swiftwater rescue assignments and helped salvage property from homes. While en route to town, crew members saw roads flooded with three feet of water, cars stuck in washed-out roadways, and vehicles being swept down washes. One park employee had her car partly buried by mud and debris at Black Rock campground. Covington Road, a dirt four-wheel-drive road, has been closed until washouts can be repaired.

[submitted by Jeff Ohlfs, Acting Chief Ranger]

 

from the NPS Morning Report, 9/02/03

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