The creation of this content included the use of AI based on templates created, reviewed and edited by journalists in the newsroom. Read more on our AI policy here.
The NWS San Francisco CA issued a weather alert at 6:49 p.m. on Saturday for showers until 7:30 p.m. The alert is for Santa Lucia Mountains and Los Padres National Forest, Northern Salinas Valley/Hollister Valley and Carmel Valley and Big Sur.
“At 6:49 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a line of showers extending from 7 miles southeast of Monterey to 9 miles southwest of Andrew Molera State Park, or extending from 7 miles southeast of Monterey to 9 miles southwest of Big Sur Village, moving east at 30 mph,” states the NWS. “Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Minor damage to outdoor objects is possible.”
Locations impacted by the alert include Big Sur Village, Jamesburg, Tassajara Hot Springs, Carmel Valley Village, Cachagua Near The Los Padres Dam, San Clemente Dam, Pico Blanco Campground and Andrew Molera State Park.
The NWS states, “Monitor the weather situation closely and be alert for threatening weather conditions.”
This alert is in effect until 7:30 p.m.
What steps to follow when driving in the rain? Turn on headlights – Even in daylight, using headlights can help improve visibility and let other drivers know where you are.While on the road – Opt for the middle lanes and remain on higher ground. Rainwater tends to gather along the road edges.Steer clear of puddles – Driving into puddles or low areas of rainwater can cause vehicles to hydroplane or skid out of control.Give ample space to large vehicles – Trucks or buses can create a water spray that diminishes visibility.Steer clear of flooded areas – When coming to a flooded road, turn around and head back. Flash flooding currents are strong and can sweep drivers off roadways. Driving through deep water can also affect a vehicle’s mechanical and electrical systems.
What is hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle begins to slide uncontrollably on wet roads.
This happens when water in front of the tire builds up faster than the vehicle’s weight can push water out of the way. The water pressure then causes the vehicle to rise and slide on a thin layer of water between the tires and the road, making the driver lose control. Hydroplaning is most commonly attributed to three factors:
Vehicle speed – When a vehicle’s speed increases, the tire-traction grip and ability to control the vehicle decreases. Drive at a reduced speed during wet weather.Water depth – The deeper the water, the sooner a vehicle loses traction on the road. It doesn’t matter how deep the water is, even a thin layer can lead to hydroplaning.Tire tread depth – Checking your tire tread before hitting the road is important, as low or no tread can lead to sliding.
In the event of your vehicle hydroplaning, here’s what to know:
Ease off the accelerator – Step off the gas to slow down the vehicle until the tires find traction.Turn into the skid – Turning into the skid can help the vehicle’s tires realign to regain control.Make sure the tires reconnect with the road – During the skid, wait until the tires reconnect with the road and then gently straighten the wheels to regain control.Brake gently as needed – Brake normally if the vehicle has anti-lock brakes and pump brakes gently if in an older vehicle.
Source: The National Weather Service
United Robots California
This story was originally published April 11, 2026 at 6:53 PM.