Severe Weather Alert: Southern California Prepares for Incoming Storm
Southern California is set to face a significant weather event as authorities brace for a powerful storm expected to make landfall on Wednesday afternoon. The storm, described by the National Weather Service (NWS) as rich with moisture, could lead to flash flooding and landslides across various regions.
Storm Impact and Projections
The incoming storm is projected to unleash between 1 and 2 inches of rainfall along coastal areas, while valleys may receive up to 4 inches. Evacuation warnings have already been issued for several fire-impacted communities, with officials stressing that the risk of mudflows and landslides is substantial. “Fire-impacted communities need to be on alert,” stated Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger during a Wednesday morning press conference. “The risk of mudflow and landslides is real. Play it safe and be prepared.”
Flood Watches and Evacuation Orders
A flood watch will take effect at 6 p.m. Wednesday, extending through Thursday afternoon, targeting much of Los Angeles and Ventura counties and parts of Santa Barbara County. Forecasters indicate that the heaviest rainfall is anticipated between Wednesday night and early Thursday morning, with peak rates potentially surpassing 0.75 inches per hour, creating urban flooding risks.
Areas Under Evacuation Warnings
Evacuation notices have been disseminated to residents in numerous neighborhoods, especially those near recent burn scars:
- Palisades burn scar: Getty Villa area, Highands, Rivas Canyon, and Mandeville Canyon.
- Sunset fire zone: East and south of Runyon Canyon.
- Hurst fire area: Olive Lane in Olive Oakridge Mobile Home Park.
- Malibu neighborhoods: Carbon Canyon, Carbon Beach East, La Costa Beach, and others.
- Sierra Madre: Mandatory evacuation for homes directly below the Sierra Madre and Lannan debris basins.
- Altadena: Evacuation warnings near the San Gabriel foothills.
All evacuation warnings and orders are expected to remain in effect until at least Thursday evening.
Maintaining Preparedness
Officials are keenly aware of the potential impacts of the storm and are taking preventative measures. Los Angeles County’s Public Works Department has prepared debris basins to handle mud and ensure the safety of residents. “All of our debris basins have capacity for this upcoming storm,” noted Public Works Director Mark Pestrella. “We expect debris and mud to come from slopes without a debris basin below it or from street systems where debris comes onto the street off the adjacent properties.”
Impact on California’s Snowpack
Besides rain, the storm is also expected to benefit California’s mountain regions with significant snowfall. As of Wednesday, the statewide snowpack is at 81% of the average, crucial for the state’s water supply. The forecast indicates that snow levels may drop to 3,000 feet, with 1 to 2 feet of snow anticipated at higher elevations.
Closure of Roads and Travel Safety
Due to anticipated mudslides and debris flows, officials are preparing for road closures in various areas. The California Department of Transportation will close Pacific Coast Highway between Chautauqua Boulevard and Carbon Beach Terrace starting at noon Wednesday, with local mountain roads shutting down at 6 p.m. Wednesday.
A Look Ahead
While the storm hitting Wednesday is expected to be the most severe, a weaker system is predicted to follow on Friday, likely bringing drizzly weather to Los Angeles, with more rain forecasted for the following week.
Residents in affected areas are urged to stay informed of the latest updates from local authorities and to take necessary precautions as Southern California prepares for potentially dangerous weather conditions.
