Southern California residents are once again evacuating their homes, but this time, the threat comes from heavy rain and potential debris flows, adding new challenges to areas still reeling from last month’s wildfires.
A powerful storm, the most intense to hit parts of California in over a year, swept across the state early Thursday, drenching more than 600 miles. Coastal and valley regions in Southern California, including the Los Angeles basin, are expected to receive up to 3 inches of rain by Friday, while mountainous areas could see as much as 6 inches, according to the National Weather Service.
Los Angeles County is bracing for its heaviest rainfall in the afternoon and evening, though downpours could begin by late morning.
Here are some of the latest update:
- Intense rainfall: A strong atmospheric river system is delivering widespread heavy rain across California. The most intense downpours are currently affecting northern and central parts of the state, with flood warnings in place from Santa Rosa to Monterey. Light rain has already begun falling in Los Angeles.
Evacuations:
- Evacuations ordered: Several Southern California communities near recent wildfire zones are under evacuation warnings or orders due to the risk of mudslides and debris flows. San Bernardino, Santa Barbara, Orange, and Los Angeles counties—including Malibu—are affected. In Santa Cruz County, evacuation warnings have been issued for flood-prone areas near the San Lorenzo River, with authorities going door-to-door to alert residents.
Flood Concerns:
- Widespread flood concerns: Flood alerts cover much of the state as the storm intensifies. Heavy rainfall could trigger flash flooding in urban areas and places with poor drainage, stretching from Northern to Southern California throughout the day.
