LOS ANGELES, Calif. – California is bracing for two powerful storms that are expected to bring heavy rainfall and the risk of flooding and landslides across much of the state. The first storm, set to arrive on Saturday, will pave the way for the second, more potent storm coming in on Sunday and lingering into early next week.
The state is still reeling from a recent storm that brought record-breaking rain and numerous mudslides to Los Angeles and other parts of Southern California. While the upcoming storms are not forecast to be as devastating, they still pose a significant threat due to the repeated rounds of rain and the slow-moving nature of the second storm. As a result, more than 27 million people are under flood watches from Northern California south to parts of the Los Angeles area.
The National Weather Service is warning of increased soil moisture and rising streams and rivers ahead of the heavier rain expected from the second storm. Emergency management officials in Santa Barbara County have issued evacuation warnings in anticipation of the impending storm. The potential for excessive precipitation through Wednesday has prompted the issuance of flood watches for several areas.
The impending storms also bring the possibility of gusty winds, though not as severe as those experienced during the earlier storm that knocked out power to hundreds of thousands. Forecasters are expecting rainfall rates in some regions to reach up to 1 inch per hour, with significant concerns for flooding and landslides. While coastal areas are expected to receive significant rainfall, higher elevations are forecast to receive more snow.
The upcoming storms are also expected to bring snow accumulation in high elevations, with totals reaching up to 4 feet in the highest peaks. The National Weather Service has advised against mountain travel during the warning period, citing potential impacts including difficult to impossible travel conditions, snow-covered roads, and reduced visibility.
The heavy rain is expected to shift south from late Sunday into early Monday, posing a Level 2 risk for flooding rain in Los Angeles. The Weather Prediction Center has forecast rainfall totals of 2 to 4 inches in coastal areas and 4 to 6 inches in higher elevations from Sunday to Wednesday. These potential impacts of the storms are heightening concerns for flooding and landslides across the state.
In addition to the risks of flooding and landslides, the storms are expected to have a significant impact on the potential for excessive precipitation and snow accumulation in the region. As California prepares for the impending inclement weather, residents and officials are taking necessary precautions to mitigate the potential hazards posed by the looming storms.