Southern California is grappling with severe weather conditions following a powerful storm fueled by an atmospheric river from the Pacific Ocean. In response, Governor Gavin Newsom has proclaimed a state of emergency for Los Angeles County and multiple southern counties currently facing fires. This step is in direct response to the extreme flood and landslide hazards, particularly in communities still traumatized by last year’s wildfires. The storm has already taken three lives. Among them is a 64-year-old man from San Diego, as torrential downpours and hurricane-force winds leave devastation in their wake throughout the region.
The current atmospheric river has started off strong, dropping over 11 inches in some locations in Los Angeles County. The heavy rainfall has caused major mudslides, flooding throughout the state, and major impacts on the transportation network, including numerous road closures. In the flooding that followed, one woman was swept away and carried nine miles downstream along San Jose Creek. Fortunately, she was rescued by the Los Angeles County Fire Department.
After the initial state of emergency was declared, in response to the crisis, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass declared a local emergency. She has doubled down on reminding residents to use caution and make safety their top priority this stormy season.
“I am urging all Angelenos to stay safe and be extremely careful on the roads if you absolutely must travel. Please do not take this storm lightly – follow official guidance, plan ahead and sign up for emergency alerts,” – Karen Bass
A 64-year old father of eight was struck and killed in the City Heights neighborhood of San Diego. It was a tragic accident when a massive 75-foot tall tree fell directly on him. The event took place as he professionally put on the spot of his house because he was moving his automobile 5 mins. Roberto Ruiz died when a tree limb crushed him on Christmas Eve under similar circumstances.
According to the U.S. Weather Prediction Center, there is a very high likelihood for additional complications from what is cooking up with this storm.
“There is a moderate risk of excessive rainfall over parts of southern California,” – US Weather Prediction Center
Scott Kleebauer, a national expert on soil conditions, suggested that the earth is still prone.
“Those soils are still hydrophobic, which means that rain just runs off like it’s hitting hard dirt or concrete,” – Scott Kleebauer
The National Weather Service late Friday night extended flood watches to cover almost all of Los Angeles County. This alert will stay in effect through Thursday as the powerful storm continues to impact the region. Although limited now in scope, officials are keeping a watchful eye, asking residents to stay alert and ready.