MOHAVE COUNTY–As Hurricane Rosa continues to drench the Baja, Mexico peninsula, Mohave County residents are preparing for heavy rains and flooding as the hurricane continues on its path through southern California, Nevada and Arizona.

The National Weather Service in Las Vegas has issued a flood watch for Mohave County starting at 2 p.m. Monday through early Wednesday morning. Residents are urged to prepare for the heavy rain, isolated thunderstorms and possible flooding.

Bullhead City Fire Department spokeswoman Lori Viles said citizens should make efforts to prepare for the possibility of a loss of power or other utility services. Also, implementing a plan for any medical needs that may arise for themselves, relatives or pets.

The Bullhead City and Fort Mojave Mesa Fire Departments are offering sandbags and sand to citizens. If you normally experience flooding around your home, please take additional measures to secure your residence, said Viles.

The sandbags will be self-serve at Fire Station #2, 1230 Highway 95 in Bullhead City and Fire Station 91 on Joy Lane in Fort Mohave. BCFD personnel, Bullhead City Police, and Mohave County Emergency Management crews are working to minimize the impacts of the storm.

The National Weather Service also cautions the flooding of washes and other drainage areas. Driving into flood waters can be dangerous. Please drive safely and avoid driving in heavy rain or other low visibility weather conditions.

All residents are encouraged to adhere to these tips to avoid flooded areas for their own safety and to allow for an efficient emergency response:

Flood Safety Tips:

• Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
• Avoid walking or driving through flood waters
• Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and 2 feet of water can sweep your vehicle away.
• If there is a chance of flash flooding, move immediately to higher ground. Flash floods are the #1 cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S.
• If floodwaters rise around your car, but the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground. Remain in the car if the water is moving.

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