In brief
As a potent storm system approaches Southern California, authorities have ordered evacuations for about 115 homes in fire-ravaged areas of Los Angeles. The National Weather Service has predicted up to 4 inches of rain and warned of potential tornadoes, keeping residents on high alert. City officials are preparing for possible power outages and debris flows in the wake of the storm, recalling the destructive impacts from previous rains. Meanwhile, related weather events have also caused devastation in Alaska.
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Some homes were ordered evacuated in wildfire-scarred Los Angeles neighborhoods as Southern California was hit by a rare October storm that was expected to pummel the region with heavy rain, high winds, and possible mudslides.
“We’re very concerned about the weather,” Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said during a news conference Monday night, explaining that strike teams, rescue teams, and helicopters were all ready to respond.
The evacuations covered about 115 homes mostly in Pacific Palisades and Mandeville Canyon, both struck by a massive inferno in January that killed more than 30 people and destroyed over 17,000 homes and buildings in Los Angeles County. Wildfires leave hillsides devoid of vegetation, making them susceptible to storm-induced debris flow.
Bass and other officials urged residents across the region to remain vigilant and stay indoors. The storm's impact was expected to peak early Tuesday, with over 16,000 already facing power outages by Monday night, according to PowerOutage.us.
The National Weather Service projected rainfall could reach up to 4 inches (10.2 centimeters) in certain areas, labeling it a “rare and very potent storm system.”
Ariel Cohen, meteorologist in charge of the National Weather Service in Los Angeles, stated that the storm could bring tornadoes and highlighted the unpredictability of its effects.
The authorities are also bracing for high winds that threaten to topple trees and power lines, with up to 3 feet (1 meter) of mountain snow expected in parts of the Sierra Nevada.
In related developments, Typhoon Halong has wreaked havoc in Alaska, causing significant damage and displacing numerous residents. One person was reported dead, with search operations ongoing.
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Golden reported from Seattle. Associated Press writer Becky Bohrer contributed from Juneau, Alaska.
