LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – Two large storms are currently hitting California, bringing heavy rainfall and the threat of flooding to many areas. The first of these storms is expected to hit Southern California on Thursday, with the potential to cause flash flooding in cities like San Diego, Sacramento, San Francisco, San Jose, and Oakland. This storm is just the beginning, as a stronger atmospheric river is forecasted to move across the region starting on Sunday. These rainy conditions are expected to persist well into next month due to the influence of El Niño.
The storms are part of a natural weather phenomenon in the tropical Pacific known as El Niño, which causes changes in the jet stream and can direct storms toward California. In addition, storms can tap into an extra-potent supply of moisture from the tropics called an atmospheric river. The heavy rainfall is expected to impact both Southern and Northern California, with up to 4 inches of rain possible in the southern part of the state.
Officials in California are preparing for the potential impacts of these storms, with hundreds of crew members ready to respond to rescue calls. In addition to the heavy rainfall, the storms are also expected to bring significant snowfall to parts of Northern California and the Sierra Nevada. This snowpack is crucial for the state’s water supply, as it helps forecast how much water will be available for the remainder of the year.
As the first storm begins to shift south, steady rain will continue to impact central California and gradually move into Southern California. A Level 2 out of 4 risk of excessive rainfall is in place for Southern California, posing a threat to roads and low-lying areas. Flood watches are expected to remain in effect through Thursday evening, with rainfall totals of 1 to 3 inches possible, along with isolated totals exceeding 4 inches.
Despite the potential challenges posed by these storms, the heavy rainfall is crucial for replenishing the state’s snowpack and water reservoirs. However, the storms also bring the risk of flooding and other weather-related hazards, prompting officials to take proactive measures in readiness for the impending onslaught of severe weather.