As Southern California prepares for severe weather, approximately 24 million residents are under flood alerts. Los Angeles is expecting an unprecedented amount of rain, with predictions suggesting a month’s worth could fall in a single day.
Flood Alerts Across California
The heavy rainfall poses significant risks, particularly in regions affected by past wildfires. Burn scars from the Palisades and Eaton fires heighten concerns regarding flash floods. Due to these conditions, the Los Angeles and San Diego metropolitan areas are classified under moderate flooding risk.
Weather Forecast
Forecasters anticipate two rounds of rain. The first round is set to commence Friday night, bringing 1 to 3 inches of rainfall. The second, more intense round is expected on Saturday, characterized by:
- Heavy rainfall
- Gusty winds
- Small hail
- Potential isolated tornadoes
Rainfall rates might reach up to 1 inch per hour, particularly impacting the already vulnerable burn scar regions from the Palisades and Eaton fires.
Rainfall Projections
Projected rainfall totals vary, with estimates suggesting:
- 2 to 6 inches across most of Southern California
- 4 to 8 inches in mountain and foothill regions
Specific areas such as Ventura County are under an evacuation warning from Thursday through Sunday, particularly for communities near the Mountain Fire burn area and Matilija Canyon.
Safety Precautions
Residents are urged to prepare for potentially life-threatening flash floods, especially in the Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties. Local authorities remind the public to stay informed and heed evacuation orders as conditions may deteriorate rapidly.
