More than 27 million Californians are currently under flood watches as the state braces for two consecutive storms set to impact various regions. The ongoing recovery efforts from recent record-breaking rainfall and numerous mudslides in the Los Angeles area add to the concerns surrounding the impending severe weather.
The imminent weather systems are causing considerable apprehension among residents, with a significant risk expected to persist for the next 36 to possibly 72 hours. The first storm, currently affecting the Bay Area, is predicted to bring gusty winds and rainfall, albeit in lighter amounts compared to the subsequent storm. The following system is anticipated to deliver a more substantial impact, particularly in southern California, where it is likely to linger longer, exacerbating the existing dangers.
Termed as a level two atmospheric river on a scale of five, this weather phenomenon poses a considerable threat due to the potential accumulation of rainfall ranging between one to five inches. Notably, San Francisco has already experienced 10.5 inches of rain this year, surpassing the typical six to seven inches usually seen by this time. Similarly, Los Angeles is expected to receive higher rainfall amounts, heightening the risks of rock slides, mudslides, and debris flows in vulnerable areas.
As the storms progress, those planning mountain activities during the long President’s Day weekend, particularly in the Sierra, Wasatch, and Siskiyou mountain ranges, should be prepared for heavy snowfall ranging from one to three feet. Additionally, strong winds with gusts up to 80 mph on ridge tops could lead to challenging conditions for travelers, particularly along mountain passes like Donner Pass and Echo Summit.
The heightened flood risk is a significant concern, particularly as the storms intensify over Sunday, extending into Monday and Tuesday before subsiding by Wednesday. These weather conditions necessitate heightened vigilance and preparedness among residents and travelers across the affected regions to mitigate potential hazards and ensure safety during the adverse weather period.
