County, city and utility company leaders were watching Tropical Cyclone Rachel off the shore of Baja California Friday and preparing for tropical storm-force winds, coastal flooding and moderate to heavy rain throughout the region.

Rain is expected to arrive as early as Saturday night, with intemperate weather continuing through Sunday morning and into the evening, according to the National Weather Service. A coastal flooding advisory is in effect until Tuesday.

A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for all of San Diego County, due to the possibility of tropical storm-force winds, coastal flooding, and moderate to heavy rain throughout the region.

Get your First Alert Weather forecast from NBC 7’s team of meteorologists here

The city of San Diego is preparing for high tides and storm surges, which could cause flooding in low-lying areas around Midway, Mission Beach and other coastal neighborhoods. Road closures are anticipated, especially in the Midway area at Frontage Road and Pacific Coast Highway, and travelers are encouraged to watch for detour signs and never drive or walk though flooded streets.

According to the city, crews are cleaning storm drains, inspecting and clearing storm channels, staging equipment including temporary pumps, and monitoring weather conditions ahead of the storm to reduce the risk of flooding and keep neighborhoods safe.

San Diegans are encouraged to prepare their homes and property for severe weather, create an emergency plan and a “go kit” in case they need to leave quickly and to stay informed by signing up for emergency alerts. Resources and information can be found at sandiego.gov/ElNino.

“Our teams are working diligently to prepare the city’s stormwater system for the incoming rain, but community preparedness is just as critical, especially with El Niño in the forecast,” said Stormwater Department Director Todd Snyder. “By taking a few simple steps now, residents can significantly reduce the potential impacts of the storm.”

Sandbags are available in limited supply and can be picked up at 11 recreation centers, at least one in each City Council District. Residents with identification showing proof of residency can receive up to 10 empty sandbags. San Diego County and other municipalities are also offering sand and/or sandbags. Get the full list below.

Where to find sandbags in San Diego County

San Diego residents can report storm-related issues, such as flooding or downed trees, by using the Get It Done app or by calling 619-527-7500. If it is a life-threatening emergency, call 911.

San Diego Gas & Electric is also taking proactive steps to prepare for the storm.

“Our teams are preparing for changing weather conditions and are ready to respond if impacts occur,” said Kevin Geraghty, chief operating and safety officer of SDG&E. “We’re monitoring conditions around the clock, positioning personnel and equipment where they’re needed most and taking proactive steps to support reliability. If weather conditions affect electric or gas service, we’re prepared to respond quickly and keep customers informed.”

To help power line workers, secure outdoor items, always assume downed power lines are energized (and report them to 911 and SDG&E at 1-800-411- 7343), driving cautiously and preparing for possible power outages with charged batteries, stocked supplies and to call the numbers above if you suspect a natural gas line leak.

Residents throughout the county can prepare by:

Sweeping and picking up trash, leaves, grass clippings and other debris that collect around storm drains and curb gutters near your home;

Keeping lids securely closed on trash and recycle bins;

Not opening manhole covers in the event of street flooding;

Turning off irrigation;

Knowing the safest routes to and from your home or property should flooding occur; and

Slowing down and not driving, riding or walking through flood waters.