California is once again on high alert as a pair of powerful storms loom over the state, bringing with them heavy rain and the looming threat of floods and mudslides. From the San Francisco area down to parts of Los Angeles, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Flood Watch, covering the majority of California’s coastline, impacting roughly 27 million residents.
The first storm, expected to hit on Saturday, is forecasted to be lighter but will saturate the soil and raise river levels, priming the region for the heavier rain expected on Sunday. This initial storm is setting the stage for potentially catastrophic conditions, particularly in Southern California.
Santa Barbara County has already taken precautionary measures by issuing evacuation warnings ahead of the impending deluge. However, the real concern lies with the second, more potent storm, set to arrive on Sunday afternoon and linger along the coast until early next week. This storm is anticipated to bring significant rainfall across the state, exacerbating the risk of flooding and landslides.
The northern parts of California are expected to bear the brunt of the storm’s impact, with forecasts predicting between 1 to 3 inches of rain in the plains and up to 5 inches in higher elevations. The NWS warns that soils in the Bay Area are already near saturation, increasing the likelihood of rapid runoff and shallow landslides, particularly in areas with steep terrain.
Road closures have already been initiated, with the California Department of Transportation announcing the complete closure of State Route 33 in Los Padres Forest due to the simultaneous storms. The closure is expected to last from Saturday to Wednesday, underscoring the severity of the situation and the need for residents to heed evacuation and safety warnings.
As California braces for the onslaught of these atmospheric river storms, residents are urged to take necessary precautions and prepare for hazardous conditions. The state remains vigilant, with emergency management agencies closely monitoring the situation and providing updates to ensure the safety of all residents.
Sources By Agencies
