In response to a powerful atmospheric river storm system, California has issued urgent evacuation orders in two counties. The storm is expected to bring life-threatening and damaging flooding, wind, snow, and waves starting Saturday night through Tuesday.
“People need to start preparing now for a major flooding event,” warned National Weather Service forecasters. Rainfall totals of 3 to 6 inches will be common, with 6 to 12 inches possible across south and southwest-facing foothills and mountains. The heaviest rain is expected Sunday and Monday, with up to 1 inch per hour possible during the peak. Long durations of heavy rainfall – from three to six hours – are also forecast.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass urged residents to stay off the roads on Sunday. “We’re fortunate that much of the storm will hit Sunday when many people are home anyway. But when in doubt, stay home. Stay informed,” Bass said during a press briefing late Saturday.
The city’s fire chief, Kristin Crowley, said at the briefing that the city will be fully staffed to prepare to respond to any water-related emergencies and has “bolstered” its air resources in anticipation of the storm. “If we ask you to evacuate, we don’t take that lightly. We’re asking you based on predictions and concerns, and we want you to get out sooner rather than later,” said Mike McClintock, Battalion Chief with the San Bernardino Fire Department.
There will be the threat of extensive rock and mudslide activity on mountain and canyon roadways, which could cause significant travel delays and road closures. Abundant freeway flooding in high-populated areas is expected.
Evacuation orders were issued on Saturday in parts of Santa Barbara County, with officials citing the high flash flooding risk. Door-to-door evacuations are expected to be completed in the city of Santa Barbara by Saturday evening. “This storm is predicted to be one of the largest and most significant storms in the history of our county,” Sheriff Barbara County Sheriff Bill Brown warned during a press briefing Saturday.
The county state beaches are closed until further notice, officials said. Schools will also be closed on Monday throughout the county. “Stay out of the ocean during the storms and to respect the temporary closures,” warned California State Parks spokesperson Gloria Sandoval.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office also issued an evacuation order on Saturday for some residents due to the expected rain impacts. The 24-hour evacuation order goes into effect at 5 p.m. local time. An evacuation warning was also issued for other parts of the county. “I’m a little more scared this time with the warnings to evacuate,” said Roberta Smith, a Ventura County resident.
Damaging winds will also be a big issue. Gusts between 60-80 mph are forecast on Sunday, especially in the mountains off the California coast. Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles. Extensive wind damage is expected in mountain areas.
A high surf advisory is already in effect, lasting through Monday. Waves could reach 20 feet, peaking Sunday. There is an increased risk of ocean drowning. Rip currents can pull swimmers and surfers out to sea. Large breaking waves can cause injury, wash people off beaches and rocks, and capsize small boats near shore.
Significant damage to roads or structures is not expected, according to the National Weather Service.
Winter storm warnings will also be in effect from Saturday evening to Tuesday in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, where very heavy snow is expected. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 4 feet are expected, with up to 5 to 6 feet at the higher mountain peaks.
Rain is forecast to move on Saturday evening and continue to intensify and spread through the night. By Sunday morning, heavy rain is expected along much of the California coast, with heavy snow in the mountains. Late Sunday afternoon, as the Grammy Awards are underway in Los Angeles, the heaviest rain from this storm will be centered over Los Angeles and surrounding areas. Flash flooding is likely, including in urban areas, as well as damaging winds. Delays are expected at Los Angeles International Airport.
By Monday morning, the heavy rain is expected to be in the San Diego area, with flash flooding likely. The rain is forecast to continue and get lighter throughout the day. This storm is a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of being prepared for such events. Residents are urged to stay informed and follow the instructions of local authorities.
ALSO READ | Clearwater Florida Plane Crash – A Night of Tragedy