Background on the Storm and Its Impact
A powerful storm is currently pummeling Southern California, bringing intense rainfall and raising fears of deadly landslides just in time for Christmas. The storm, fueled by an atmospheric river known as the “Pineapple Express,” is transporting abundant moisture from Hawaii to the West Coast. Meteorologists predict that it will unleash the equivalent of several months’ worth of rain over the coming days.
Key Areas Affected
Los Angeles and the majority of Southern California are under flash flood warnings as of Wednesday. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a stern warning about “severe and widespread flash flooding,” stating that “lives and properties are at great risk.”
The first intense rainfall hit the region Tuesday night, intensifying Wednesday morning. A brief tornado warning was issued and later canceled for several communities in Los Angeles, the second-most populous city in the United States.
Immediate Impacts
Los Angeles woke up to fallen trees blocking streets, minor flooding, and power disruptions for thousands due to downed power lines caused by the Christmas storm.
Pacific Palisades and Malibu, coastal areas still recovering from January’s devastating wildfires, are under special alert. The scarred terrain is susceptible to landslides with persistent rainfall.
Evacuation Orders and Travel Advisories
With evacuation orders issued to some residents in Southern California, shelters have opened across the region. Several major roadways are closed due to rapid flash flood warnings affecting extensive areas of Southern California.
Forecast and Expert Advice
Ariel Cohen, a meteorologist with the NWS, warned media outlets that from Wednesday afternoon through Friday, “many areas are likely to experience significant flooding along with rockfalls and landslides, particularly in higher elevations.”
“If you had plans to travel during Christmas, please reconsider your plans,” Cohen advised.
Meteorologists predict possible gusts of up to 127.8 kilometers per hour in the mountains and deserts of Los Angeles County.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is causing this intense storm in California? The storm is fueled by an atmospheric river known as the “Pineapple Express,” which carries abundant moisture from Hawaii to the West Coast.
- Which areas are most affected by the storm? Los Angeles and most of Southern California are under flash flood warnings, with severe and widespread flash flooding expected.
- What should residents in the affected areas do? Residents have received evacuation orders, and travel plans should be reconsidered due to potential road closures and hazardous conditions.
- What are the predicted wind speeds during the storm? Meteorologists predict possible gusts of up to 127.8 kilometers per hour in the mountains and deserts of Los Angeles County.
