LOS ANGELES, Calif. – The entire population of California is on high alert as the rain-soaked state prepares for another round of heavy precipitation. Following a potent storm earlier this month that brought record-breaking rainfall and triggered hundreds of mudslides, officials are urging residents to stay off the roads as the state braces for more rain.
While the upcoming storms are not expected to be as severe as the previous one, parts of California could see up to 5 inches of rainfall through midweek, with 37 million people under flood watches. The Los Angeles office of the National Weather Service has warned of significant flooding, with 2 to 5 inches of rain expected and up to 10 inches in isolated areas.
In preparation for the impending storm, California Governor Gavin Newsom has activated the state’s operations center and directed the Office of Emergency Services to preposition swift water rescue teams and other personnel in several counties to be able to respond to emergencies. Santa Barbara County has issued evacuation warnings for three areas, and the Weather Prediction Center has issued excessive rain outlooks for much of California and parts of Nevada.
Major cities, including Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, are facing significant risks from the upcoming storms, with the potential for flooding, mudslides, and heavy snowfall. The National Weather Service is imploring residents to have a means to get weather alerts and be prepared for possible tornadoes, hail, lightning, and gusty winds.
In addition, a winter storm warning is in effect with travel expected to be difficult and possible road closures in the Sierra region. The storm is expected to bring heavy snowfall and gusty winds, and travel could be very difficult to impossible across Sierra passes. With the Monday holiday, travelers are being warned of increased traffic and possible delays.
As California continues to grapple with the aftermath of recent storms, residents and authorities are taking precautions and preparing for the potential impact of the upcoming weather system.