Severe storms expected; Drive with caution

12/09/2014 - The National Weather Service has issued a high wind and flash flood warning for Wednesday-Friday, December 10-12. Heavy rainfall is anticipated throughout the Bay Area, especially in the North Bay. The volume of rain is expected to overwhelm waterways and roadway drainage systems, leading to flash flooding. Additionally, high winds are expected.

Employees who are driving during the stormy weather are urged to drive with caution. Please also take note of the information below, which was provided by the California Highway Patrol.

• Freeways often flood nearest to the roadway edges, especially on elevated roadways with walls on both sides. Avoid outside lanes, especially at night.
• Never drive through standing water.
• The primary method for avoiding collisions during severe weather is to slow down. Slower speeds prevent hydroplaning. Extra following distance will also help you stay safe if there is a crash ahead.
• If your windshield wipers are on, your headlights should be on as well.
• Prepare your vehicle now. Replace windshield wipers if needed and check your brakes and fluids. The worst time to break down is during stormy weather!
• If you experience an emergency on the freeway, call 9-1-1 from your mobile phone. Be aware that CHP response times are often delayed due to the high volume of calls. If you experience a minor collision, move out of the roadway as soon as possible to prevent secondary collisions.