Southern California is getting ready for severe weather again. A third atmospheric river storm is coming, bringing heavy rain, thunderstorms, and snow in the mountains. This means over 35 million people in California will face flood watches.
The National Weather Service warns of a “Moderate Risk of Excessive Rainfall” in Los Angeles and northern San Diego. People need to watch out for flash floods and mudslides as the storm hits. These events show how important it is to be prepared for extreme weather.
Emergency preparednessis key in these situations.
Key Takeaways
- Third atmospheric river storm hits Southern California
- Flash flood risks extend from Redding to San Diego
- Over 35 million Californians under flood watches
- Moderate Risk of Excessive Rainfall for LA and northern San Diego
- Increased threat of mudslides due to heavy rainfall
- Climate change impacts evident in extreme weather patterns
Current Weather Situation in Southern California
Southern California is facing a critical weather situation. The region is getting ready for more flash flooding. This is the third atmospheric river storm this month, raising concerns about potential devastation.
Recent Atmospheric River Storms
Two storms already hit Southern California hard, causing severe flooding and mudslides. These storms made the ground very wet. Now, the risk of flash floods is higher with the new storm coming.
Ongoing Heavy Rainfall
The latest storm is bringing heavy rain to the area. Forecasters say some places could get up to 1 inch of rain per hour. This heavy rain is expected to get worse from Tuesday night into Wednesday, leading to urgent advisories.
Thunderstorm Activity
Along with the heavy rain, thunderstorms are moving through Southern California. These storms increase the risk of lightning strikes and sudden heavy rain. This makes the weather safety concerns even more urgent for people living there.
| Weather Phenomenon | Expected Impact | Peak Intensity |
|---|---|---|
| Atmospheric River Storm | Severe flooding, mudslides | Tuesday night – Wednesday |
| Heavy Rainfall | Flash flooding, water accumulation | Up to 1 inch per hour |
| Thunderstorms | Lightning strikes, sudden downpours | Intermittent throughout storm duration |
As the situation develops, people are advised to keep up with local weather updates. They should also follow safety tips to stay safe from flash floods.
Flood Alerts and Warnings
California is facing a serious situation with flood warnings across the state. Over 35 million people are under flood watches. This shows how important it is to be ready for emergencies.
The National Weather Service has warned of a “Moderate Risk of Excessive Rainfall” in Los Angeles and northern San Diego counties. This means people need to take action now.
The area is at high risk for flash flooding, especially in Southern California. Disaster management teams are ready to act fast. They expect many flash floods through Wednesday morning.
| Area | Risk Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles County | Moderate | Through Wednesday morning |
| Northern San Diego County | Moderate | Through Wednesday morning |
| Southern California | High | Tuesday into Wednesday |
It’s important for everyone to stay updated and follow flood warnings. Being prepared is key during these times. Make sure your emergency kits are ready, listen to local news, and be ready to leave if told to do so. Your safety is the most important thing.
Southern California: More Flash Flooding Ahead
Southern California is facing severe weather with flash floods as a big threat. The area will see a lot of rain, making many places at risk for flooding and other dangers.
Areas at Highest Risk
Los Angeles and northern San Diego counties are getting ready for the worst. The National Weather Service says there’s a “Moderate Risk of Excessive Rainfall”. People in low-lying areas and near burn scars should watch out and be ready for possible evacuations.
Expected Rainfall Rates
The storm will bring a lot of rain quickly. Some places might see up to 1 inch of rain per hour. This could cause flash floods and mudslides, especially in areas with poor drainage.
Duration of Flash Flood Threat
The threat of flash floods will last a while. Heavy rain is expected until Wednesday morning, with the worst of it from Tuesday night to Wednesday. This means a higher chance of flooding and other hazards across Southern California.
| Time Period | Rainfall Intensity | Flash Flood Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday Night | Very Heavy | Extreme |
| Wednesday Morning | Heavy | High |
| Wednesday Afternoon | Moderate | Moderate |
Record-Breaking Rainfall Totals
Southern California weather patterns have taken a dramatic turn. Rainfall advisories are now a daily event. The region is seeing unprecedented precipitation levels, pushing many areas close to breaking long-standing records.
Los Angeles February Rainfall
Los Angeles is on the verge of setting a new February rainfall record. By Tuesday, the city had gotten 12.21 inches of rain, close to the 1998 record of 13.68 inches. This surge shows the intensity of recent atmospheric river storms hitting the area.
Santa Barbara County Precipitation
Santa Barbara County has seen some of the highest rainfall totals. Notable measurements include:
- KTYD Tower: 11.60 inches
- San Marcos Pass: 10.94 inches
- El Deseo: 10.18 inches
These figures, recorded by Tuesday afternoon, show the severity of the current weather system.
Comparison to Historical Data
The current rainfall totals are not just breaking records; they’re changing our understanding of climate change’s impact on the region. Meteorologists are closely monitoring these trends. They may signal a shift in southern California’s weather patterns.
| Location | Current Rainfall (inches) | Previous Record (inches) | Year of Previous Record |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | 12.21 | 13.68 | 1998 |
| Santa Barbara (KTYD Tower) | 11.60 | 9.52 | 2017 |
As these numbers keep rising, they highlight the changing climate and its impact on local weather.
Impact on Transportation and Infrastructure
The relentless storms in Southern California have caused a lot of damage to transportation and infrastructure. Flood mitigation strategies are being tested as roads and airports deal with big challenges. The Santa Barbara Airport had to close temporarily because of flooding on the tarmac. This shows we need better disaster management in key areas.
Many roads are closed because of flooding and debris. This has left some communities cut off. It highlights the need for strong flood mitigation strategies. Local teams are working hard to clear roads and get access back, but the rain keeps making it tough.
The damage isn’t just to roads. Power outages have hit many areas, making life harder for people and emergency workers. Water treatment plants are also facing issues, dealing with too much water and possible contamination from floodwaters.
“Our priority is to ensure the safety of our citizens while minimizing disruptions to essential services,” stated a local official involved in the disaster management efforts.
As more rain comes, Southern California’s infrastructure is really being tested. This situation shows we need to keep investing in flood-resistant infrastructure and disaster management plans.
Snow Accumulation in Higher Elevations
The severe weather in Southern California includes heavy snow in the mountains. This shows how the region faces many climate challenges.
Sierra Nevada Snowfall
The Sierra Nevada mountains are getting a lot of snow. Areas near the top are already over 2 feet deep, with more snow coming. This snowpack raises the flood risk because it could melt fast with warmer weather.
Northern California Snow Forecast
Northern California is also expecting a lot of snow. The Shasta Siskiyous might get 12-18 inches of snow on Tuesday. This snow, along with rain in lower areas, makes flooding more likely across the state.
Heavy snow in the mountains and rain in the valleys create a complex weather situation. As temperatures change, melting snow could make flooding worse in valleys and lowlands. This weather pattern in Southern California shows why it’s important for people to stay updated and ready for changes.
- Sierra Nevada: Approaching 2 feet of snow
- Additional snowfall: 6-12 inches expected
- Shasta Siskiyous: 12-18 inches forecast
These extreme weather conditions show why it’s key to watch both rain and snow for flood risks. California’s varied landscape makes predicting the weather and getting ready for emergencies tough.
Evacuation Warnings and Safety Measures
Southern California is getting ready for flash flooding. Emergency preparedness is key. Authorities have issued evacuation warnings in several counties. This shows how important disaster management is.
Santa Barbara County Evacuations
Santa Barbara County might see road closures due to flooding and debris. Officials tell people in high-risk areas to watch out and follow evacuation orders. They are clearing storm drains and giving out sandbags as part of their flood plan.
Los Angeles County Evacuation Warnings
Southwestern Los Angeles County is under an evacuation warning until Wednesday morning. The main worry is mud and debris flow in certain areas. People should get their go-bags ready and know where the shelters are.
Mudslide and Debris Flow Concerns
Montecito, near Santa Barbara, has seen mudslides with roads covered in soil and debris. This shows we need strong flood plans. People living in hillside areas should be extra careful.
To get ready for emergencies, families should make a communication plan. They should also put together emergency kits. These kits should have:
- Non-perishable food and water
- First aid supplies
- Flashlights and batteries
- Important documents in waterproof containers
Keep an eye on local news and official channels for the latest on evacuation orders and road closures. Being prepared and quick to act is key to your safety.
Future Weather Outlook
The weather in southern California is changing, with the current atmospheric river weakening by Wednesday evening. This change means a short break from heavy rain as it moves towards the Rockies.
Climate change is making its mark on the region’s weather. Experts say another atmospheric river is coming late Sunday, hinting at more severe weather ahead.
This cycle of atmospheric rivers is worrying for the area’s future climate. Scientists are watching these patterns closely to understand their long-term effects.
| Time Period | Expected Weather | Potential Impacts |
|---|---|---|
| Wednesday Evening | Current atmospheric river weakens | Temporary relief from heavy rainfall |
| Thursday-Saturday | Intermittent showers | Continued flood risk in saturated areas |
| Late Sunday | New atmospheric river arrives | Renewed flooding concerns, possible landslides |
As southern California prepares for more extreme weather, it’s crucial to stay updated on local forecasts and follow any warnings. The ongoing atmospheric rivers highlight the need for better infrastructure and disaster readiness due to climate change.
Conclusion
Southern California is facing severe weather with more flash flooding expected. The area is dealing with record-breaking rainfall and widespread flood alerts. This has raised the risk of mudslides and debris flows, alerting residents.
Emergency preparedness is key as storms hit the area. People should keep up with weather updates and follow evacuation warnings. The situation shows how vital flood management strategies are for safety and infrastructure.
As Southern California prepares for more flash flooding, the effects go beyond just safety. The heavy rain points to the need for long-term planning and resilience against climate changes. Everyone must stay alert and ready for what’s coming.
FAQ
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Source Links
- Southern California ‘under the gun’ for more flash flooding, National Weather Service says – https://news.yahoo.com/news/southern-california-under-the-gun-for-more-flash-flooding-national-weather-service-says-222719539.html
Climate Change Impact Emergency Preparedness Extreme weather events Flash Flood Risk Flash Flooding Natural disasters Southern California Southern California Weather Weather Warning
Last modified: July 26, 2024
