Southern California Faces Severe Threat from Christmas Flooding

Residents of Southern California are preparing for a significant winter storm that is expected to bring hazardous flooding, along with rock and mudslides, posing a serious threat to property and complicating holiday travel plans.

According to the National Weather Service, peak rainfall in certain areas could reach up to 1.5 inches per hour. The foothills and mountains south of Point Conception, which encompass parts of Los Angeles and Santa Barbara, are projected to receive as much as nine inches (25 centimeters) of rain by 10 p.m. local time on Christmas Eve. Rainfall is anticipated to continue into Thursday and Christmas Day, with a total of 14 inches (35 centimeters) potentially drenching the region by Friday.

“Severe, widespread flash flooding is expected,” warned the US Weather Prediction Center in an early Wednesday forecast. “Lives and property are in great danger.”

Coastal areas of Southern California are forecasted to receive several months’ worth of rain within just one to three days, as reported by AccuWeather.

In response to the impending storm, some residents in Los Angeles County have already been ordered to evacuate from areas prone to mudslides. Officials have also issued warnings about possible road closures, airport delays, and flight cancellations.

Forecasters are urging Californians to exercise caution while driving and to avoid attempting to navigate flooded roadways.

Topics
California
Flood

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