Increasing Threat of Flooding and Mudslides as Pineapple Express Brings Atmospheric River to Southern California

California Storm Brings Risk of Flooding and Mudslides

Rare High Flood Risk Persists

An intense, long-lasting atmospheric river is moving across California, bringing the potential for mudslides and life-threatening flooding. A firehose of rain has parked over Southern California, worsening the high risk of flooding throughout Monday. Torrential rainfall and “locally catastrophic” flooding is possible in Orange County through Tuesday.

Power Outage Numbers Remain High

Strong winds and rain have knocked out power for more than 500,000 customers in California. The majority of outages are in the northern half of the state where winds gusted as high as 100 mph. PowerOutage.us is tracking the power outages.

At Least One Fatality Reported

A man in Yuba City was killed by a large redwood tree that fell during high winds. The man was attempting to clear the tree away from his residence when it fell on him.

Los Angeles Sees Wettest Day in 20 Years

Downtown Los Angeles received 4.10 inches of rain on Sunday, marking the wettest day the city has seen in 20 years. February is typically the wettest month of the year in Los Angeles.

Rare Rain Risk for Southern California

The Weather Prediction Center has issued a rare high risk of excessive rainfall for more than 14 million people across Southern California. Widespread rainfall totals of 3 to 6 inches are expected, which is more than a month’s worth of rain for most areas.

Life-Threatening Landslides and Flash Flooding Expected

An “extremely dangerous situation” is unfolding in the Hollywood Hills area and around the Santa Monica Mountains. Damaging landslides, flooded roadways, submerged vehicles, and flooded creeks and streams are ongoing in the affected areas.

Officials Enforce Evacuation Orders

Residents in several California counties were under evacuation orders due to the potential for “life-threatening” floods and landslides. Authorities went door-to-door to give evacuation warnings in affected areas.

Storm Hinders Travel in the Mountains

Significant snowfall totals are expected in eastern California and along Nevada’s border. Dangerous wind gusts are expected to produce whiteout conditions, making travel above certain elevations near impossible.

Schools Cancel Classes and Go Remote

Several school districts in Santa Barbara County have canceled classes due to the severe weather. Some schools have switched to remote learning. California State University Fullerton is among the institutions that have transitioned to remote learning.

State of Emergency Declared

Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency for multiple California counties. The state is bracing for flooded roadways and swollen rivers.

Warnings and Precautions in Place

Officials are urging residents to stay off the roads and remain at home if possible. Flash flood warnings are in place for various areas, and low-lying and flood-prone areas have been issued evacuation warnings.

Debris Flows and Damage Reported

Debris flows, or fast-moving landslides, have caused damage to homes in Studio City and Encino. No injuries have been reported, but residents have been evacuated from affected areas.

Read More of this Story at www.cnn.com – 2024-02-05 14:46:00