Kern County flood watch prompts CHP travel warning

A National Weather Service flood watch covers Bakersfield and much of Kern County through Thursday evening as storms could bring heavy rain, raising the risk of flash flooding in streams, low-lying areas and urban neighborhoods with poor drainage. Officials warn that water may cover low-water crossings, including parts of Highway 58 and the Borel burn-scar area. The California Highway Patrol urges drivers to avoid travel if possible; those who must drive should slow down, leave extra space, use headlights with wipers and never drive through floodwater.