The Southern California coast is currently being hit by a powerful rain and wind storm, following closely on the heels of a recent storm that soaked the area. Forecasters and local authorities are cautioning residents in Los Angeles and surrounding areas to brace themselves for hazardous conditions.
The National Weather Service issued a stark warning around 10 a.m. PT on Sunday, describing the incoming storm as one of the most severe weather events in recent memory. This storm, classified as an atmospheric river, is expected to bring up to eight inches of rain to coastal and valley regions and over a foot of rain to foothills and mountainous areas. Some areas may experience rainfall rates of more than an inch per hour.
In addition to heavy showers and thunderstorms, the storm will bring “very dangerous” winds that increase the risk of flash flooding and turbulent conditions.
The image above captures the powerful waves crashing over a breakwater in Alameda, California, with the iconic San Francisco skyline in the background on a stormy day in February 2024.
A major storm is set to hit the Southern California region, triggering flood watches and concerns among meteorologists. By Sunday morning, wind gusts exceeding 80 miles per hour were recorded in certain areas, leading the National Weather Service to issue a hurricane-force wind warning near San Francisco.
The impending storm has prompted local officials to brace for impact, with Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass comparing its potential strength to that of Tropical Storm Hillary in August. The NWS has cautioned residents to prepare for flooded roads, closed freeways, water intrusion in homes and businesses, and toppled trees due to the powerful winds.
Evacuation orders have been issued for portions of Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties, as well as parts of San José in Santa Clara County. School districts have preemptively canceled classes for Monday, with NASCAR rescheduling the Busch Light Clash race to Saturday evening to avoid the adverse weather conditions.
In anticipation of the storm, California’s Office of Emergency Services has strategically positioned fire engines across the state. The gravity of the situation is underscored by the increased rain totals, with coastal and valley areas expected to receive 4-8 inches, foothills and mountains 8-14 inches, and reduced totals in San Luis Obispo County. The Flood Watch remains in effect for all areas as the region braces for the impact of the impending weather system.