Severe Rainfall and Threats Persist
California has been pounded by record-breaking rainfall since Sunday, causing widespread damage.
Mudslides and flooding remain significant threats, prompting officials to issue warnings despite a slight easing of the rain.
Current Situation
Over 150,000 people are without power, and at least three fatalities have been reported.
A state of emergency has been declared in eight California counties.
Ongoing Rainfall and Risks
The National Weather Service predicts continued rain through Tuesday evening, with a slight risk of excessive rainfall in some areas.
Southern California, including Los Angeles, is experiencing showers and thunderstorms, contributing to the lingering dangers.
Los Angeles Impact and Response
Los Angeles witnessed a record-breaking 4.1 inches (10.4 cm) of rainfall, causing over 300 mudslides and numerous damaged structures.
The city has deployed additional resources, including search-and-rescue crews and helicopters, with President Joe Biden offering federal assistance.
Beverly Hills Damage
In the Beverly Hills neighborhood, residents face significant challenges, with one describing an “avalanche of mud” near his home.
Mud and debris have half-buried cars, creating hazardous conditions.
Atmospheric River Phenomenon
The powerful storm is attributed to an “atmospheric river” effect, characterized by water evaporating into the air and forming long currents carried by the wind.
This slow-moving storm marks the second atmospheric river to hit California in two weeks.
Bombogenesis Effect
The storm underwent bombogenesis, a phenomenon where colder air mixes with warmer sea air, leading to a rapid drop in atmospheric pressure and the creation of a “bomb cyclone.”
Warnings for San Francisco
San Francisco County faces a coastal flood advisory, with warnings of continued flooding in lots, parks, and roads.
Despite the rain largely subsiding, residents are urged to avoid the beach due to potential large waves.
Northern California Impact
Wind gusts up to 75 mph (121 km/h) caused power outages for over 800,000 homes in the Bay Area and California’s Central Coast.
Evacuation orders are in effect for several neighborhoods, and three deaths have been reported, including incidents involving falling trees.
San Diego Flood Watch
The San Diego region is under a flood watch on Tuesday with 1 to 2 inches of forecasted rain.
Roads were closed on Monday due to mudslides and runoff-submerged areas, posing additional challenges.