In brief
Southern California is experiencing an unusually strong storm system known as an atmospheric river, resulting in heavy rainfall and flooding warnings across coastal Los Angeles County. The National Weather Service reported rain rates reaching one inch per hour, with more than four inches of rain recorded in Santa Barbara County. Evacuation warnings are in effect for areas near recent burn scars due to the potential for debris flows.
LOS ANGELES (AP) — An unusual storm system referred to as an atmospheric river is currently affecting Southern California, bringing significant rainfall and flood warnings, especially in coastal areas recently impacted by wildfires. On Saturday, the National Weather Service reported rainfall rates of up to one inch (2.5 centimeters) per hour, prompting warnings for flash flooding. Prior to the storm's arrival in Los Angeles, Santa Barbara County was hit with over four inches of rain on Friday. As the storm continues, heavy winds have further exacerbated the situation, forcing authorities to advise residents to stay indoors. This plume of tropical moisture originated over the Pacific Ocean and has since spread rainfall throughout Southern California, raising snow forecasts for the Sierra Nevada to over a foot. Flood warnings now span from Ventura County through Malibu to central Los Angeles. Mayor Karen Bass highlighted the serious risk of debris flows, extending evacuation warnings around recent burn scars and reiterating the mandatory evacuation orders for high-risk properties in areas like the Palisades and Eaton burn zones. Authorities will continue to monitor the situation closely and assist in evacuations where necessary.
