Southern California Declares State of Emergency as Tropical Storm Hilary Approaches

Southern California is bracing itself for the arrival of Tropical Storm Hilary, as the region experiences its first-ever tropical storm warning. Clark County, Nevada, has declared a state of emergency ahead of the storm’s impact, with heavy rain and strong winds expected across the Las Vegas area.

The county, which has jurisdiction over the popular tourist destination of the Las Vegas Strip, declared the emergency “to ensure additional resources are available should they be needed.” County Manager Kevin Schiller cited the potential for significant rainfall and flooding, particularly in rural areas, as the reason for the declaration.

Local officials are urging residents and visitors to be aware of the serious dangers posed by flash flooding and storm surge. Clark County commission chairman Jim Gibson emphasized the importance of staying away from recreational areas and not driving on roads during the storm. Several public parks have announced closures until at least Monday.

Residents are also being cautioned about normally dry washes and low-water crossings, as they can become life-threatening hazards during heavy rain. Gibson advised the public to heed the warnings and avoid driving through flooded roads or around barricades. Recreational areas such as Red Rock, Lake Mead, and Mount Charleston are particularly vulnerable to road and trail washouts.

For the most up-to-date weather information, residents are encouraged to visit the National Weather Service’s official website at https://www.weather.gov/vef/.

Tre’Vaughn Howard, a social media producer and trending content writer for CBS News, reported on the preparations and warnings ahead of Tropical Storm Hilary’s arrival.

What measures has Clark County, Nevada taken to prepare for Tropical Storm Hilary?

Get ready, Southern California! Tropical Storm Hilary is on its way, and the region is about to experience its first-ever tropical storm warning. But it’s not just California that’s at risk – Clark County, Nevada, home to the famous Las Vegas Strip, has already declared a state of emergency. They’re bracing themselves for heavy rain and strong winds that are expected to hit the area.

County Manager Kevin Schiller explained that the emergency declaration was made to ensure they have enough resources in case they’re needed. And they just might be, as significant rainfall and flooding are predicted, especially in the rural areas. So, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Local officials are urging everyone in the area to take the dangers of flash flooding and storm surge seriously. Clark County commission chairman Jim Gibson specifically warned against going to recreational areas and driving on roads during the storm. In fact, some public parks have even decided to close until at least Monday.

But it’s not only the parks that pose a threat. Normally dry washes and low-water crossings can also turn into life-threatening hazards during heavy rain. That’s why Gibson stressed the importance of following the warnings and not driving through flooded roads or around barricades. Popular recreational areas like Red Rock, Lake Mead, and Mount Charleston are especially vulnerable to road and trail washouts, so it’s better to play it safe.

For the latest weather updates, residents are encouraged to visit the National Weather Service’s official website at https://www.weather.gov/vef/.

Stay tuned as Tre’Vaughn Howard, a social media producer and trending content writer for CBS News, keeps you updated on the preparations and warnings leading up to the arrival of Tropical Storm Hilary. Don’t let the storm catch you off guard – be prepared and stay safe!