Southern California is bracing for severe weather as the Pineapple Express storm approaches, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds throughout Christmas week. This could lead to significant challenges, including mudslides, tree damage, and flooding in urban areas.
Christmas Week Weather Overview
Forecasts indicate an 80% chance that downtown Los Angeles will receive two or more inches of rain from Tuesday through Christmas Day. If these predictions hold true, this could mark one of the stormiest Christmases in decades.
Rain Forecast and Impact
- Estimated rainfall: 3 to 6 inches for Los Angeles County, Orange County, and the Inland Empire.
- High Desert regions may experience 2 to 3 inches of rain.
- Southern California mountain ranges could see 8 to 10 inches, heightening the risk for mudslides.
David Gomberg, a meteorologist from the National Weather Service in Oxnard, emphasized the severity of rainfall rates, which may reach half an inch to one inch per hour between midnight Tuesday and noon Wednesday. This intense downpour poses a substantial risk for local mountains and canyon routes.
Timing of the Rainfall
The peak impact of this weather system is expected between Tuesday and Thursday. Rain is likely to begin on Tuesday night and persist into Wednesday and Thursday across various counties:
- Los Angeles County
- Ventura County
- Santa Barbara County
- San Luis Obispo County
In Orange County and the Inland Empire, initial light showers are anticipated on Tuesday, with heavier rainfall set for Wednesday. Flooding risks and mudslide warnings remain in effect through Thursday.
Projected Rainfall Scenarios
Forecasters suggest a 40% chance of “very high” rainfall in Los Angeles, Ventura, and southern Santa Barbara counties, with similar forecasts indicating a 30% likelihood for northern Santa Barbara County and San Luis Obispo County:
- 4 or more inches in valleys and coastal areas.
- 8 or more inches in mountain and foothill regions.
The predicted rainfall could lead to serious consequences, including:
- Significant mudslides
- Flooded freeways
- Rivers and streams overflowing their banks
- Localized flooding impacting homes and businesses
- Moderate coastal flooding
- Potential downed trees and power lines
Wind Forecast
In addition to the rains, gusty winds from the south could become an issue. Peak gusts in various areas include:
- Los Angeles: 31 mph
- Woodland Hills: 38 mph
- Paso Robles: 52 mph
- San Luis Obispo: 53 mph
Los Angeles has a 65% chance of gusts exceeding 35 mph, while San Diego has a 60% chance. Residents are advised to avoid parking under trees and secure loose outdoor objects as a precaution.
Conclusion
As Southern California prepares for this intense weather system, residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions. The combination of heavy rainfall and strong winds could create hazardous conditions throughout the holiday period.
