Southern California Braces for the Strongest Storm in a Year
As the strongest storm in a year barrels towards Southern California, forecasters are warning residents to prepare for potential widespread roadway flooding and the risk of landslides, particularly in areas recently ravaged by the devastating Los Angeles County firestorms. This deluge is expected to surpass the relatively modest storms that have brought much-needed rain to the region over the last few weeks. Meteorologists are urging caution, advising residents to avoid unnecessary travel on Thursday, which is anticipated to be the peak of the storm.
Ryan Kittell, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Oxnard, emphasized the severity of the upcoming weather event. He stated, “Thursday is just not a great day to be on the road. If nothing else, expect lots of slick roads, traffic accidents, and roadway flooding.” For those residing in or near fire-scarred areas, it is recommended to either evacuate before the storm hits or hunker down at home and refrain from venturing out onto the roads.
The National Weather Service has issued warnings of potentially life-threatening flooding and debris flows, forecasting that the next few days could see the heaviest rainfall of the entire winter season. Even in the absence of significant debris flows, the aftermath of the storm is expected to result in muddy roads and numerous closures in and around the burn scars left by previous fires. The looming threat of debris flows, characterized by rapidly moving water laden with mud, rocks, branches, and even vehicles, poses a significant risk to the affected areas.
Timing of the Storm
Showers are anticipated to start as early as Wednesday, albeit in a relatively light form. The heaviest rain is expected to hit Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties on Thursday, with Los Angeles and Ventura counties bracing for intense rainfall from Thursday afternoon through Friday morning. The peak of the storm in Los Angeles is predicted to occur on Thursday night into Friday morning, causing concern among residents and officials alike.
In the Inland Empire, San Diego, and Orange counties, the most significant rainfall is expected on Thursday afternoon and evening. While the storm may not be as potent in these areas, meteorologists have stressed that it remains a substantial event for the region. Thursday is shaping up to be the most intense day of the storm in the San Francisco Bay Area and the Sierra Nevada, with potential risks of shallow landslides, river flooding, flash flooding, and urban stream flooding.
Rainfall Projections and Potential Impacts
Forecasters are predicting rainfall amounts ranging from 1.5 to 3 inches across much of Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties, with mountainous regions likely to receive between 3 to 6 inches. San Luis Obispo County is expected to see higher precipitation levels, with estimates ranging from 3 to 5 inches in lower-lying areas and up to 10 inches in mountainous terrain.
Residents in various cities across Southern California are bracing for substantial rainfall totals, ranging from just over an inch in Lancaster to nearly 4 inches in Cambria. The threat of localized flooding is a significant concern, with the potential for road closures and hazardous driving conditions throughout the affected areas.
As the storm approaches, the risk of mudslides and debris flows in recently burned regions is particularly worrisome. The absence of vegetation in these areas leaves the soil vulnerable to erosion, heightening the likelihood of dangerous landslides. Residents in these at-risk zones are advised to exercise caution, consider temporary relocation, and avoid travel through Thursday to mitigate potential dangers.
The impending storm is also expected to bring strong winds, with peak gusts of up to 60 mph in mountainous and desert areas. Downed trees and power lines could lead to electrical outages, while the possibility of water spouts and tornadoes adds an additional layer of risk to the forecast. As the storm passes through the region, residents are urged to remain vigilant and prepared for potential disruptions to daily life.
As the storm moves out of the region on Friday, a period of dry weather is expected, offering residents a reprieve from the intense conditions. With temperatures anticipated to rise in the coming week, Southern California may experience a welcome break from the recent onslaught of severe weather. Stay informed, stay safe, and be prepared for whatever Mother Nature may send your way.
