California Braces for Pair of Atmospheric River Storms, SoCal Soaking Expected
After a prolonged dry spell, California is gearing up for a double whammy of atmospheric river storms set to make landfall. These storms bring the promise of much-needed moisture to the drought-stricken Southland, while packing a more potent punch up north. The forecast suggests that next week’s anticipated rains should not pose a significant threat of triggering destructive debris flows and mudslides in Southern California’s recent burn areas. However, the risk remains present, leaving a range of possibilities for the total rainfall expected.
Anticipated Rainfall in Southern California
According to the National Weather Service office in Oxnard, Los Angeles and Ventura counties may experience moderate to heavy rainfall from Tuesday through Thursday. This extended period of precipitation could bring 1 to 2 inches of rain along the coast and in the valleys, with 2 to 4 inches expected in the mountains and foothills. The likelihood of substantial rainfall increases between Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday afternoon, with a 50% chance of moderate amounts of rain in L.A. and Ventura counties. While there is a 10% possibility of higher rainfall levels, a 40% chance exists for less rain to fall.
The cumulative forecast translates to a “low but non-zero risk for flooding and debris flows” for Los Angeles and Ventura counties, as stated by the weather service. In the best-case scenario for the upcoming three-day storm starting Tuesday, various regions are expected to receive different amounts of rainfall. For instance, Long Beach might see three-fifths of an inch, while Santa Barbara could receive 1.55 inches of rain. Although this level of precipitation would offer much-needed relief to the parched vegetation, it may not be sufficient to quell one of California’s most devastating wildfire seasons.
Impacts on Northern California and Beyond
While Southern California prepares for the impending storms, Northern California is bracing for a double whammy of atmospheric river events. These long plumes of water vapor are akin to rivers in the sky, capable of delivering a significant portion of the state’s annual precipitation. The first storm is anticipated to hit between Friday and Sunday, followed by a second system arriving on Monday and extending into the middle of the following week.
These storms are currently looming in the eastern Pacific Ocean, with the second one even reaching into the vicinity of Hawaii. The initial storm is expected to bring accumulating snowfall to the higher Sierra peaks, while the second system could usher in heavier mountain snow and potentially disrupt travel. Despite the dry conditions prevailing in the Sacramento Valley, concerns are more about localized flooding, mudslides, and significant rises in waterways rather than widespread major flooding impacts.
As the Bay Area and surrounding regions gear up for at least six days of rain, the potential for moderate impacts looms large. Areas like San Francisco, the North Bay, and San Mateo County, as well as Santa Cruz and San Benito counties, could witness elevated water levels in creeks and streams, along with minor street flooding. The timing and extent of moderate-to-heavy rainfall remain critical factors in determining the exact impact.
Stay tuned as meteorologists track the progress of these atmospheric river storms, providing valuable insights into the much-anticipated rainfall across California. The next few days promise an interesting mix of weather patterns that could significantly impact the state’s water supply and ecological balance. Let’s all keep a watchful eye on the skies and hope for a safe and beneficial deluge.