CZU Burn Scar Residents Warned: Prepare Go Bag As Rain Approaches

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, CA — Santa Cruz County is warning people near the CZU August Lightning Complex fires to prepare an emergency "go" bag as a rainstorm approaches the Bay Area.

Weather officials believe rainfall amounts will approach, but not exceed, thresholds for debris flow evacuations, the county said. Still, people in the affected areas are asked to prepare a bag in case weather conditions worsen.

Debris flow occurs when water flows downhill through burned areas, carrying with it burned trees, rocks, silt and other debris.

"Protect yourself, protect your family," the county wrote on Twitter.

Read: Will Lightning And Hail Strike Santa Cruz County This Week?

Santa Cruz County residents are encouraged to text SCR911 to 99411 to sign up for emergency text message alerts.

A storm could bring brief downpours of heavy rain, small hail and even a stroke or two of thunder on Tuesday and Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service.

Coastal mountain areas are expected to see the most rain — one to two inches.

Read more about this week's weather forecast here.