In preparation for an impending “life-threatening” flash flooding event, California is on high alert, mere days after enduring substantial rainfall. The weekend forecasts predict heavy rain and snowfall, leading to severe flooding spanning from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles. Officials are anticipating the arrival of the season’s most significant storm, characterized by the “atmospheric river” effect—a phenomenon driven by airborne currents of dense moisture.
With more than 22 million people under flood alerts, the National Weather Service (NWS) issues a stern warning for residents to brace for “damaging, life-threatening flooding.” The advice includes preparing with extra supplies, fuel, and sandbags. Atmospheric rivers, where water evaporates into the air and is carried by wind currents resembling skybound rivers, are set to contribute to this weather onslaught, known as the “Pineapple Express.”
Residents are cautioned about potential exacerbations from remnants of a prior storm, causing damage, water rescues, and closures along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway. The NWS forecasts a prolonged period of continuous rain, potentially lasting 24 to 36 hours or more, beginning Saturday evening. The Los Angeles River is predicted to become a rapidly rising and perilous watercourse during this time.
Accompanying heavy mountain snow and damaging winds, the region may experience a substantial amount of rainfall—equivalent to a month’s worth, ranging from three to 10 inches (seven to 25cm). This precipitation could trigger urban flooding, mudslides, and flash flooding. The initial storm halted cable car services in the San Francisco Bay area before unleashing torrential rain on Los Angeles and San Diego.
In a harrowing incident in northern California near San Jose, a colossal 100ft (30m) redwood tree fell onto a car, trapping a girl inside. Firefighters managed to rescue her, and she suffered only minor injuries. Another San Diego resident, Ruben Gomez, recounted firefighters rescuing his parents from a flooded home submerged in 6ft (2m) of water during the first storm.
Earlier in the week, the torrential rain set a record for daily rainfall at Los Angeles International Airport, reaching 3.37 inches and surpassing the 1960 record of 1.55 inches. Parts of the Sierra Nevada already reported 12 to 14 inches (30 to 35.5 cm) of snow, with the impending storm poised to bring an additional four feet of snowfall to the mountains.
Recalling the devastating consequences of similar atmospheric river storms last year—resulting in over 20 deaths and $4.6 billion (£3.6 billion) in damages—the weather service warns that this year’s storm may be equally, if not more, formidable.
