California Braces for Powerful and Prolonged Storm with Potential Devastating Impacts
California is preparing for a significant atmospheric river event that is expected to hit the state this weekend. This powerful storm poses a considerable risk of flash flooding, mudslides, damaging winds, and heavy mountain snow, affecting nearly 40 million people in cities such as San Francisco, Sacramento, Los Angeles, and San Diego.
According to the Los Angeles office of the National Weather Service, there is an increasing likelihood of heavy rain lasting through most of Sunday and Monday. The storm has the potential to generate unprecedented amounts of rainfall across a widespread area. The Weather Prediction Center has issued a rare Level 4 of 4 risk of excessive rainfall for Santa Barbara and Oxnard on Sunday, indicating the severity of the upcoming weather event. A Level 4 “high risk” area is issued on fewer than 4% of days per year but accounts for more than 80% of all flood-related damage and 39% of flood-related deaths.
The rainfall is expected to begin late Saturday night, with central portions of coastal California experiencing a few inches of rain by early Sunday morning, leading to possible flooding. The Transverse Ranges in Southern California may see at least 8 inches of rain in less than 24 hours, with some locations possibly receiving over 10 inches due to repeated storms occurring within a short period.
Widespread rainfall totals of 3 to 6 inches are expected in central and southern California, which is equivalent to more than a month’s worth of rain for most areas. Los Angeles, which typically averages 2.99 inches of rain in February, its wettest month, may experience up to a foot of rain in the mountains and foothills.
In anticipation of the severe weather conditions, the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office has issued evacuation orders for some communities and warnings about potential landslides or debris flows caused by the anticipated rain. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass emphasized the strength of the storm, comparing it to Tropical Storm Hilary from last August. She urged residents to take common-sense precautions, stay at home, keep updated with the latest information, and ensure they have emergency supplies.
The upcoming atmospheric river is distinct from the recent storm that brought record rainfall to California. This new storm is slower and expected to stall as it moves onshore, resulting in a longer duration of rain compared to the previous one. Concerns over flooding and mudslides are heightened due to the already saturated ground from the previous storm. Los Angeles International Airport recorded nearly a month’s worth of rain in a single day.
High winds will also be a significant concern across California, with widespread winds of 40 to 60 mph and gusts as high as 75 to 80 mph. This may lead to downed trees and power outages. The National Weather Service office in San Francisco stated that this event is as much a wind event as it is a rain event, with recent model guidance suggesting an even greater potential for strong winds.
Wind advisories and high wind warnings cover the entire state, affecting nearly 30 million people. Coastal central California, including cities like San Jose and Salinas, also faces the potential for severe storms on Sunday, including isolated tornadoes and damaging winds.
Aside from rain and wind, this storm is expected to bring significant snowfall. The weather service office in Reno, Nevada, forecasts major travel impacts in the Sierra from Sunday through Tuesday due to heavy snowfall. Mono County, which includes popular tourist destinations like Mammoth Lakes and Yosemite National Park, is expected to receive significant snow totals, with a chance for over 4 feet of snowfall above 8,000 feet.
As residents and authorities brace for the impending storm, it is vital to heed evacuation orders, stay informed about the latest updates, and be prepared with emergency supplies. This powerful and prolonged atmospheric river event has the potential to cause widespread damage and disruption across California, making it crucial for everyone to prioritize safety and take necessary precautions.
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