NWS Issues Thunderstorm Warning Across Imperial County

Severe thunderstorms moved through Imperial County and nearby communities on October 10, 2026, prompting National Weather Service warnings for damaging winds, lightning risks, and hazardous conditions. The alerts affected areas including Yuma, Somerton, Gadsden, El Centro, and surrounding locations.

The National Weather Service tracked a storm near Somerton moving north at 35 mph and warned residents about possible impacts from the system.

"At 7:02 p.m., a severe thunderstorm was located near Somerton, moving north at 35 mph," said the National Weather Service.

The agency also warned that the storm could damage property and urged people to seek shelter during the severe weather event.

"Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees," said the National Weather Service.

The warning area included Yuma, Somerton, Gadsden, Fortuna Foothills, San Luis, Araby, Winterhaven, Andrade and Blaisdell. The warning remained in effect until 7:45 p.m.

"Seek shelter inside a well-built structure and stay away from windows. This storm is capable of producing damaging winds," said the National Weather Service.

Earlier Saturday, the National Weather Service reported another thunderstorm alert covering parts of Southern California, including communities near El Centro and Ocotillo.

"At 11:22 a.m., Doppler radar tracked an area of strong thunderstorms extending from Ocotillo to El Centro, moving north at 30 mph," said the National Weather Service.

The earlier alert included portions of CA Route 78, CA Route 98, Interstate 8, and CA Route 86, with residents advised to monitor conditions.

"Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects," said the National Weather Service.

The National Weather Service also issued a similar evening update after radar tracked storms near Yuma, San Luis, and Gadsden moving north.

"At 6:39 p.m., Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm over Yuma, San Luis, and Gadsden, moving north at 40 mph," said the National Weather Service.

The agency said the later storm system could produce gusty winds and affect unsecured outdoor items across impacted communities.

"Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects," said the National Weather Service.

The National Weather Service advised residents to remain alert as storm conditions developed across the region.

"Monitor the weather situation closely and be alert for threatening weather conditions," said the National Weather Service.

The agency reported that lightning strikes the United States about 25 million times each year and cause about 20 deaths annually. It advised people to remain indoors after thunder or lightning until 30 minutes after the final occurrence.

Drivers were also advised to use headlights in rain, avoid flooded roads, keep distance from large vehicles, and reduce speed because wet roads can cause hydroplaning.

Hydroplaning occurs when water builds between tires and the road surface, reducing vehicle control. The National Weather Service identified speed, water depth, and tire tread depth as major factors affecting the risk.