California Battles Floods and Landslides as Toppled Tree Falls on House Roof
California has been hit hard by a devastating storm that brought heavy rainfall, floods, and landslides to the region. As the storm finally begins to move out of the area, officials are warning residents to remain vigilant as the threat of mudslides still remains. Despite the challenging conditions, there is some good news on the horizon, with the state expected to begin drying out on Thursday and heading for a sunny weekend.
The storm, caused by a massive atmospheric river, unleashed record-breaking amounts of rain on California over the past three days. In LA’s Westwood neighborhood alone, nearly 12 inches of rain fell in just 24 hours, according to US Stormwatch. This deluge of water has led to over 400 mudslides throughout Los Angeles, resulting in significant damage to numerous homes.
Tragically, the storm has also claimed lives. Four people have been reported dead, with three individuals killed by falling trees in northern California, and one person swept away in the Tijuana River channel while attempting to cross the US-Mexico border into California. This loss of life serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by extreme weather conditions.
While the worst of the storm may be over, there is still cause for concern. A heavy cloudburst is forecasted for Wednesday, which could bring additional inches of rain to already saturated grounds. This poses a continued risk of mudslides and further damage to affected areas. Therefore, it is crucial for residents to remain cautious and prepared.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass emphasized the need for ongoing vigilance, urging residents to stay prepared for more rain. She warned that even though the storm is beginning to subside, there is still a possibility of heavy rains in a short period of time that may impact commute and exacerbate the existing saturation of hillsides.
The city of Los Angeles has been dealing with the aftermath of the storm, with a staggering 475 mudslides reported since the weekend. These mudslides have resulted in damage to buildings and infrastructure, including 38 buildings that now require inspection due to slope failures. Additionally, fallen trees and branches have caused significant disruption, with a recorded count of 390 incidents. Authorities have been working tirelessly to clear debris and ensure the safety of residents.
In the midst of these challenging conditions, firefighters in Placer County, east of Sacramento, have issued a warning about the danger of downed power lines. Despite the recent rain, these power lines can still pose a significant risk, with the potential to spark fires. CAL Fire has urged residents to report any downed power lines without attempting to touch or cross them.
As Southern California begins to recover from this devastating storm, it is important to remember the resilience and strength of its residents. Mayor Karen Bass expressed gratitude for the zero storm-related fatalities thus far, attributing it to the vigilance and cooperation of Angelinos. With continued caution and preparation, California will overcome these challenges and emerge stronger than ever.
California Battles Floods and Landslides as Toppled Tree Falls on House Roof. Despite the devastation caused by a record-breaking storm, California remains resilient in the face of adversity. While the worst of the storm may be over, residents are reminded to stay vigilant as the threat of mudslides still looms. The city of Los Angeles has seen significant damage from over 475 mudslides, causing damage to buildings and infrastructure. However, the community is coming together to clear debris and ensure safety. Downed power lines continue to pose a risk, despite recent rainfall. As Southern California begins to recover, it is a testament to the strength and resilience of its residents.
