Aftermath of Holiday Deluges (Image Credits: Ca-times.brightspotcdn.com)
Southern California – Residents face another wave of wet weather just as the region recovers from recent heavy storms, with forecasters outlining a multi-day rain event stretching into the new year.
Aftermath of Holiday Deluges
The area endured intense rainfall over the Christmas period, where atmospheric rivers dumped several inches across Los Angeles and surrounding counties. Flash flooding swept through urban streets and mountain passes, leading to evacuations and road closures in places like San Bernardino and Riverside. Authorities declared states of emergency in affected zones to manage the widespread disruptions.
Even as cleanup efforts continue, the ground remains saturated, heightening risks for the next system. Recent reports from the National Weather Service highlighted how the previous storms caused at least three fatalities and buried homes in mudslides. Communities in Wrightwood and other foothill areas still assess damage from debris flows triggered by the downpours.
Building Pressure from the Pacific
A new Pacific storm system gathers strength offshore, poised to deliver moderate to heavy rain starting mid-week. This event draws moisture from tropical sources, mimicking hurricane-like bands but classified as an atmospheric river. Meteorologists at the Los Angeles Times noted that while not a tropical cyclone, the setup promises gusty winds up to 85 mph in exposed areas.
High-wind watches already cover the Santa Ana Mountains and San Gorgonio Pass, where gusts could complicate travel and power lines. The storm’s progression aligns with a broader pattern of wet conditions across the state, as outlined in seasonal rainfall updates from weather monitoring sites. Northern areas saw above-normal precipitation earlier in the month, setting a precedent for southern impacts.
Hour-by-Hour Timeline of the Storm
Rain arrives Tuesday evening along the Central Coast, advancing southward overnight. By Wednesday morning, expect scattered showers in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, intensifying to steady rain by afternoon in Los Angeles. The peak hits Thursday, with 1 to 3 inches possible in coastal and valley regions, tapering to lighter amounts inland.
Friday brings a brief lull before showers return Saturday, coinciding with New Year’s Eve celebrations. Forecasters predict 0.5 to 1 inch over the holiday weekend, with totals accumulating to 2-4 inches region-wide by Sunday. Posts on X from local weather enthusiasts echoed this outlook, emphasizing the progressive nature of the system.
- Tuesday evening: Light rain begins in northern zones, spreading south.
- Wednesday: Widespread showers, heaviest in the afternoon; winds pick up.
- Thursday: Core of the storm; flash flood risks elevate in burn scar areas.
- Friday-Saturday: Intermittent rain; cooler temperatures settle in.
- Sunday (New Year’s Day): Lingering drizzle, clearing by evening.
Impacts and Safety Measures
Flooding remains the primary concern, especially in low-lying neighborhoods and canyons still recovering from prior events. The California Hydrology Update from mid-December warned of saturated soils amplifying runoff. Drivers should avoid flooded roads, as even shallow water can stall vehicles.
Officials urge residents to clear storm drains and monitor alerts from the National Weather Service. Power outages may occur due to wind, prompting preparations like stocking essentials. While totals fall short of record levels, the back-to-back systems strain infrastructure across the region.
Key Takeaways
- Southern California could see 2-4 inches of rain through the weekend, building on recent saturation.
- Flash flooding and high winds pose the biggest threats; stay informed via local alerts.
- New Year’s festivities may shift indoors – plan accordingly for wet conditions.
As Southern California navigates this latest bout of stormy weather, the focus stays on resilience amid a season of extremes. The rains, while beneficial for reservoirs, underscore the need for vigilance. What preparations are you making for the wet holiday ahead? Share your thoughts in the comments.
