Flash flood warning issued for part of SLO County

A flash flood warning was issued for parts of southern San Luis Obispo County on Sunday afternoon as a heavy band of rain crossed the region during an intense atmospheric river storm.

According to the National Weather Service, Doppler radar indicated heavy rain showers were overspreading the area and “flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly.”

The warning was for San Luis Obispo, Pismo Beach, Arroyo Grande, Grover Beach and Nipomo, as well as parts of northern Santa Barbara County.

According to the warning, between 0.5 and 1 inches had fallen across the region so far and additional rainfall amounts of between 1 to 4 inches were possible.

People were urged to be aware of their surroundings and not drive on flooded roads.

The warning will be in effect until midnight.

Flood advisory for other parts of SLO County

Meanwhile, the NWS issued a flood advisory for the rest of the county, warning of the possibility of flooding due to excessive rainfall. Those areas could see another 1 to 2 inches of rain through Sunday evening, according to the advisory.

According to the National Weather Service advisory, “flooding caused by excessive rainfall” was expected after Doppler radar indicated rainfall intensity was increasing across the Central Coast.

The additional rain was expected to result in minor flooding, as well as some potential shallow rockslides and mudslides.

The advisory was in effect through 5 p.m.

The NWS also issued a special marine warning for the waters off Avila Beach down south to Santa Barbara County, warning of winds great than 65 knots and the possibility of waterspouts.