Heavy rain is currently battering California, affecting more than 35 million people and leading to widespread flood threats across the state. The torrential downpours that occurred on Monday triggered landslides and left debris in various communities, with the Santa Barbara area being particularly hard hit.
The intense rainfall has caused roadways to turn into rivers, resulting in travel chaos throughout the region. The weather conditions have been closely monitored, with forecasts predicting an additional one to three inches of rain, especially in Southern California.
California's small creeks and tributaries have transformed into raging rivers due to the significant amount of rain falling in a short period. This rapid rise in water levels has led to debris accumulation and increased flood risks.
Los Angeles is on track to potentially break its record for the wettest February ever recorded, with only two inches needed to surpass the previous record set in 1998. Flash flooding remains a concern in central and northern parts of the state, with a moderate risk identified in the SoCal region, particularly in Los Angeles and San Bernardino County.
Impressive rainfall totals have been reported, with San Marcos Pass receiving nearly nine inches of rain and the Malibu Hills area experiencing almost five inches. Snowfall has also been significant, with some locations receiving up to a foot and a half of snow. More snow is expected in the Sierra Nevada mountain range.
Millions of Americans continue to be impacted by flood alerts across California, highlighting the severity of the weather conditions. The situation is being closely monitored to assess the potential for further flooding and record-breaking rainfall in the state.
