Southern California Braces for Renewed Flood Risk as Stormy Pattern Continues
Southern California is entering the new year facing another round of rain and the potential for notable flooding. Following a remarkably wet start to the water year, communities are on alert as a series of storms move through the region. This article provides a comprehensive update on the current weather situation, potential hazards, and what you can do to stay safe.
Current Conditions & Forecast
Recent heavy rainfall has already led to mud and debris flows, forcing evacuations in areas like Sherman Oaks. Crews are working diligently to clear impacted areas, but the risk remains high.
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
* Wind Advisories: Currently in effect for higher elevations in Ventura,Santa Barbara,and San Luis Obispo counties,and also the Santa Lucia Mountains. These advisories, likely to expand along the Central Coast, are valid through Saturday evening.
* Strong winds: Saturated soils increase the risk of trees falling, especially in the Santa Lucia range where gusts will be strongest.
* Beach Closures: the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has issued a water closure advisory for all beaches, effective until at least Monday afternoon, due to elevated bacteria levels. This could be extended depending on continued rainfall.
* Next Storm System: A colder storm is anticipated to arrive between monday and Tuesday, potentially bringing isolated thunderstorms, heavy downpours, hail, and snow levels as low as 5,000 feet.
* Northern California Impact: Northern California is expected to bear the brunt of the weekend storm, with a high risk of urban and roadway flooding, and rising rivers and streams.Flooding has already been observed in areas like Corte madera in Marin County.
A Historic Start to the Water Year
The period from October 1st to December 31st has been exceptionally wet, ranking among the top nine wettest starts to the water year for all official climate locations tracked by the National weather Service.
Specifically:
* Oxnard and Santa Barbara: Have experienced their wettest start to the water year ever.
* Downtown Los Angeles: Has received 11.64 inches of rain – roughly 82% of its typical annual rainfall.
* Sanberg (Los Angeles County): Has recorded over 16 inches of rain through Wednesday, surpassing its average annual rainfall of 13.14 inches (records dating back to 1934).
“We’re certainly well ahead of the game,” says National Weather Service forecaster, Wofford.”It does look like after we get through this last storm cycle we’re looking at several days of dry weather after that, perhaps as many as two weeks. So we could be in for a long dry spell.”
Staying Safe During Storms: What You Need to Know
Given the current and anticipated conditions, it’s crucial to take precautions to protect yourself and your property. Here’s what you should do:
* Heed Warnings: Pay close attention to weather alerts and advisories issued by the National Weather Service.
* Avoid Flood Zones: Stay away from areas prone to flooding, including low-lying areas, canyons, and near rivers and streams.
* Beach Safety: Comply with beach closure advisories to avoid exposure to harmful bacteria.
* Secure Property: Clear gutters and downspouts, secure loose objects outdoors, and consider sandbagging vulnerable areas.
* Driving Precautions: If you must drive, slow down, increase following distance, and avoid driving through standing water. “Turn around, don’t drown” is a critical safety message.
* Emergency Kit: Ensure you have a well-stocked emergency kit with essentials like water, food, medications, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit.
Resources for More Information
* National Weather Service: https://www.weather.gov/
* Los angeles County Department of Public Health: http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/
* California Office of Emergency Services: https://www.caloes.ca.gov/
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