Hurricane Hillary is moving up the coast of Baja California and should arrive in Southern California by Friday night.

The National Weather Service (NWS) says that the Imperial Valley can expect rain to start as early as Friday evening and continue through Monday. The forecast for Saturday is a 70 percent chance of showers and possibly thunderstorms with rainfall amounts between three quarters and one inch possible. The chances for precipitation goes to 90 percent on Saturday night with another three quarters and one inch possible. Showers and thunderstorms will continue Sunday and Sunday night and into Monday night with an additional accumulation of up to an additional three to four inches of rain. Skies should be clearing by Tuesday. NWS says that winds should peak in the 20 to 30 mph range except much stronger near any thunderstorms. A Flood Watch has been issued.

Imperial County emergency service agencies have issued information for residents to take precautionary action to ensure their safety. The City of El Centro Public Works Department is making sand bags available to City residents and businesses whose property is prone to flooding. Sand and a total of 10 sandbags to be filled by residents will be available while supplies last. The sand and bags will be provided Friday between 3 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Old Post Office Pavilion parking lot at 5th and Olive. Proof of City of El Centro residency is required.