Overnight rain made for a slippery commute across Fresno County on Tuesday.
Nearly 700 residents lost power after two pickup trucks collided, striking a power pole at Central and De Wolf avenues during the morning drive.
“This is what we’re seeing all the way through the Valley,” California Highway Patrol Officer Mike Salas said. “We’re seeing a lot of rain, a lot of spin-outs.”
After months of dry, summer heat, the roads are the most slippery today.
“It’s really the first big rain of the season,” Salas said. “So, as you can imagine, a lot of these oils and debris on the ground is coming up again, causing a little more slippery commute for our drivers.”
The first rain caught some drivers by surprise. Many showed up at the O’Reilly Auto Parts in Fig Garden Loop to change their wipers.
“They definitely wake up, they start driving, they’re like, ‘You know what, it’s raining. I got to do it before it gets worse – the weather gets worse.'” Parts Specialist Armando said. “So they come in right before work, generally, or when it’s really bad.”
Armando urges all drivers to inspect their cars, taking a look at the wiper blades after the triple-digit heat may have dried them out.
“See if they’re streaking or falling apart,” he said. “It’s a good idea to replace them, especially since it’s about to get rainier. The wet season is really about to start.”
Officials also recommend packing a “go bag,” including warm clothes, snacks, and water in case you get stuck in a downpour.
“Slow down,” Salas said as a general tip. “Keep a bit of a distance. I know it’s hard with the commute traffic out there, but keep some distance between you and the car you’re following. Always keep that seat belt on and definitely put those cell phones down.”
If you do get into an accident, Salas says it is generally best to stay in the vehicle with your seatbelt on and to pull off the roadway if it is safe.
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