Atmospheric River Comes to Southern California
Los Angeles, CA – The National Weather Service in Los Angeles issued a stern warning on Sunday regarding the arrival of an atmospheric river, a weather phenomenon that brings intense rain and potentially dangerous conditions. The storm, known as a “Pineapple Express,” is expected to result in substantial flooding and is causing major disruptions in Southern California.
Key Points
- A major storm is hitting California, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and the potential for flash floods and mudslides.
- Evacuation orders have been issued, and residents are urged to stay off the roads.
- Power outages have affected over 242,000 customers, and more are expected.
- Significant rainfall is forecasted, with Los Angeles potentially experiencing up to 15 inches over the next few days.
Dangerous Conditions and Evacuation Orders
The National Weather Service issued a stern warning for residents, emphasizing the dangerous nature of the incoming storm. They stressed the significance of the risk to life and property, especially due to the hazards of substantial flooding. Evacuation orders are in place, and residents are advised to avoid traveling, particularly on freeways.
The storm, part of an atmospheric river phenomenon, has already caused a hurricane-force wind warning to be issued in northern California. Wind gusts of almost 90mph have been reported, with the full impact of the storm still to come. The threat of dangerous flooding and mudslides has prompted residents and authorities to prepare for the worst.
Incredible Rainfall and Power Outages
With weeks worth of rainfall expected in just a few days, the storm is set to drench the region. Forecasters are predicting the possibility of Los Angeles receiving up to 15 inches of rainfall by Wednesday. The excessive precipitation has already resulted in more than 242,000 customers losing power.
Notably, there has been more than a foot of snowfall reported northwest of Lake Tahoe within a 24-hour period, highlighting the indiscriminate impact of the storm across different landscapes.
Impacts on California and Beyond
The storm is not solely affecting Southern California. The west coast region is expected to experience large amounts of rain and snowfall, with five states potentially feeling its impact. However, California is predicted to bear the brunt of the extreme weather, particularly in terms of wind, rain, and snow.
Meteorologists have underscored the risks associated with the storm, cautioning the public to remain vigilant. Life-threatening conditions, such as flooding, could potentially evolve in some communities, and public awareness is crucial. Notable cities in the storm’s path include San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, and Las Vegas.
The Historical Significance of the Storm
This atmospheric river event has prompted the issuance of California’s first-ever Hurricane Force Wind Warning. The National Weather Service (NWS) has taken this unprecedented step to raise awareness and provide critical information to communities. NWS Bay Area warns of wind gusts of up to 90mph along the coastlines and the potential for isolated thunderstorms. Additionally, severe rain, expected to reach several inches, could lead to the San Bernardino Mountains outside Los Angeles being particularly hard-hit.
According to AccuWeather, approximately 94% of California’s population, nearly 37 million people, is at risk of life-threatening flooding. The rugged terrain amplifies the risk, making even a few inches of rain potentially disastrous. The counties of Ventura, Santa Barbara, and Los Angeles are expected to face the greatest danger amid the canyons and hills.
Precautionary Measures and Safety
Authorities have called for evacuation in affected areas, as flash floods and landslides pose significant dangers. The Los Angeles Fire Department has issued evacuation orders in several counties, and designated evacuation centers are prepared to assist affected residents and their animals. Additionally, a professional golf tournament at Pebble Beach in Monterey County has been cancelled due to the extreme weather conditions.
California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in eight counties, covering a population of more than 20 million people. The declaration enables the mobilization of additional resources to aid emergency response efforts.
Residents are urged to diligently follow updates from local authorities and weather services, and take necessary precautions to safeguard their well-being.
As this weather event continues to unfold, the region is likely to experience unprecedented rainfall, powerful winds, and the constant threat of dangerous conditions. The storm showcases the significant challenges posed by climate volatility and the importance of preparedness for extreme weather events.
