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Monsoon Rains Flood Joshua Tree, Forcing Closures and Safety Warnings

Short, intense desert downpours race off hard soils, triggering sudden floods that complicate travel.

Flooding impacts a road in California’s Joshua Tree National Park in February 2019.

Overview

  • National Park Service alerts report flooding and debris on roads, with Instagram posts showing high winds and water‑covered, debris‑strewn pavement.
  • Officials caution visitors to avoid unnecessary travel, never drive through moving water, and monitor park updates during the stormy pattern.
  • The Oasis of Mara was closed due to conditions on August 27, with the park signaling area shutdowns may occur as needed.
  • A National Weather Service meteorologist said additional storms can still deliver very heavy rain, keeping flash‑flood risk elevated.
  • Access is further constrained as the West Entrance is closed to vehicle traffic until August 29, and part of the Black Rock Trailhead remains closed for repairs until September 30.