A potent storm system brought heavy downpours to San Diego County on Monday, resulting in flooded roadways, numerous car crashes, and water rescues across the area. Morning commuters were particularly affected, prompting the issuance of several flash flood warnings throughout the county.

The National Weather Service (NWS) extended a flash flood warning to various parts of North County, including Oceanside, Carlsbad, Vista, and Solana Beach. The warning was later expanded to include Chula Vista, San Diego, and El Cajon until 12:45 p.m., indicating a dangerous and life-threatening situation. The NWS urged residents to avoid traveling unless under evacuation orders or fleeing areas prone to flooding.

During a flood warning, it is essential for residents to steer clear of walking or driving through floodwaters and seek higher ground whenever possible. Although a flash flood watch remained in effect until 9 p.m., meteorologists expected the rate of rainfall to decrease significantly after noon, according to NBC 7 Meteorologist Sheena Parveen.

The storm's impact was significant, leading to the full closure of northbound Interstate 15 near National City around 1:30 p.m. due to flooding. No reopening time was announced. Additionally, the SR-78 near El Camino Real faced full closure due to flooding, striking an area that had experienced flooding damage repairs just last year. The estimated time for restoration remained unknown.

Numerous incidents of flooding were reported by the California Highway Patrol amid the heavy downpours. The City of San Diego also reported road closures. In Spring Valley, a residential apartment complex suffered from water seepage on its first floor, with further details being investigated by an NBC 7 crew at the Helix Apartments complex on Conrad Street.

The impact of the storm stretched to other areas as well, including San Diego State University, where a road on campus had to be closed due to falling rocks caused by heavy rain and flooding. The Naval Base San Diego also faced the consequences of the storm, although no specific information about the extent of the impact was provided.

Heartland Fire Department spokesman Andy McKellar stated around midday that approximately 150 to 200 homes across the county had been flooded. This area covers El Cajon, La Mesa, Lemon Grove, and other East County communities.

As the powerful storm continued to lash San Diego County, residents were urged to exercise caution and stay updated on the latest weather advisories and storm-related information.