California Hit by Landslides and Flash Flooding After Heavy Rainfall
California was hit by severe landslides and flash flooding after heavy rainfall, causing chaos and disruption across the state. The worst of the rain occurred during and just after the Monday morning commute, with areas like San Diego being particularly affected. According to senior meteorologist Jonathan Erdman, “These areas picked up 2 to 4 inches of rain, much of which fell in just three hours. That kind of deluge over a metro area with hills easily triggered flash flooding.”
San Diego International Airport recorded 2.7 inches of rain, making it the wettest January day in the city since records began in 1851. Erdman noted that the city received more than a month’s worth of rain in less than six hours, resulting in flooded homes and water-covered roads. There were also concerns about debris flows in areas previously affected by wildfires in the Los Angeles metro.
The impact of the heavy rainfall was captured in a dramatic video posted by a resident who managed to escape their flooded home, where they had lived their entire life. Others took to kayaks to check on their neighbors and pets, as cars and homes were being flooded in the Mountain View area of the city.
In response to the worsening situation, evacuation warnings were issued for the Topanga Canyon area of Los Angeles County until 6 a.m. the following day. Authorities warned residents about potential debris flows in areas that had been left vulnerable by previous wildfires.
Further north, a section of State Road 70 in Butte and Plumas counties was closed due to a landslide, as reported by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). This added to the transportation woes caused by the heavy rainfall.
By Monday evening, the worst of the rain had subsided, but runoff continued to pose problems in many areas. The recent storms in California have been part of a series that has crossed the state throughout the month. While the rainfall has caused difficulties, it has also brought much-needed snowfall to higher elevations. This is crucial in building up the state’s snowpack, which currently stands at only about 30% of the average. California’s snowpack plays a vital role in supplying one-third of the state’s water when it melts in the spring.
The recent extreme weather events highlight the importance of being prepared for sudden dangers such as flash flooding. It is essential to stay informed about weather conditions and follow evacuation warnings and safety guidelines to ensure personal safety and minimize damage to property. As the climate continues to change, it is likely that such extreme weather events will become more frequent, emphasizing the need for effective disaster management and adaptation strategies.
