Heavy thunderstorms and sustained monsoonal storms produced heavy rain, high winds, and debris-strewn, flooded roadways within Joshua Tree National Park. Park officials reported road damage and active flash-flooding risk, and advised visitors to avoid unnecessary travel when road conditions are unsafe. Meteorologists noted storms were still moving through the area and could produce very heavy rainfall similar to previous storms, maintaining flash flood potential. Drivers were warned never to attempt crossing flooded roadways because even shallow water can trap vehicles. The Oasis of Mara has been closed due to current hazardous conditions, and park operations have been impacted.
Officials at Joshua Tree National Park are warning visitors of road damage and flash flooding caused by heavy thunderstorms, impacting park operations ahead of Labor Day weekend. Heavy rain is causing flooding within the park, the National Park Service wrote in an alert on Tuesday. On its Instagram, the park posted stories showing high winds and storms, along with flooded, debris-strewn roadways.
"Turn around. Don't drown," the text on one story reads. "Severe monsoonal storms are affecting the park today." It's still raining in the Joshua Tree area as of Tuesday afternoon, Ashley Nickerson, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service's Las Vegas office, told SFGATE. She added that Tuesday's storm appears to be steadily moving, unlike the one from Monday, which hung above the park for several hours. However, there is still a risk of flash flooding.
In another Instagram story, the park service advised visitors to avoid unnecessary travel in the area if road conditions become unsafe. Nickerson said drivers should never try crossing flooded roadways, as even shallow water can trap cars. The Oasis of Mara, one of the park's most popular attractions, has been closed due to current conditions, the park service announced in its alert.
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