-Editorial
A strong thunderstorm that moved through Imperial County Aug. 12 caused heavy rain, hail, winds of up to 70 mph, and widespread power outages, according to the Imperial County Fire Department and Office of Emergency Services.
Cedric Ceseña, deputy chief of operations and training for the Imperial County Fire Department and Office of Emergency Services, said the storm developed at about 4 p.m. southwest of Calexico and remained in the area for nearly an hour.
“We had strong winds of up to 70 mph,” Ceseña said. “Obviously, we had intense rainfall, and there was also hail during the event.”
The storm caused damage to electrical infrastructure north and south of Heber, as well as damage to some privately owned structures, including signs and other infrastructure, Ceseña said.
Nearly 5,000 households lost electricity during the storm. Most customers had their service restored, although a smaller number remained without power, according to Ceseña.
Emergency officials also opened a shelter at a school in Heber Tuesday night as a precaution for residents who might have been left without electricity during the heat. Ceseña said no residents stayed at the shelter overnight, although some people sought relief from the heat during the evening before returning home as temperatures decreased.
The storm affected an area extending from the northern to southern portions of the county, roughly west of the area between Highway 111 and Dogwood Road, Ceseña said.
Ceseña urged residents to remain prepared as the region continues through the monsoon season and faces the possibility of additional severe weather.
“This is monsoon season, so it is important to always be prepared,” Ceseña said.
He recommended that residents maintain a family communication plan because severe weather can disrupt both electricity and cellphone service. Households should also keep at least 72 hours of food, water, and necessary medications for everyone living in the home.
Ceseña encourages residents to monitor weather conditions and maintain emergency supplies in case additional storms cause power outages, property damage, or other disruptions.
Calexico Mayor Victor Legaspi stated on his social media that he joined Fire Chief Juan Contreras, City Manager Benjamin Martinez, Public Works Director Jesus Villegas, Associate Engineer Fernando Williams, and Council Member Adriana Marquez in surveying residential areas after the storm to assess damage.
Calexico police officers also patrolled the community to provide safety and assistance.
