UPDATE: A powerful atmospheric river storm is currently battering Southern California, bringing a heightened risk of severe flooding and mudslides as it reaches its peak. The storm is expected to unleash torrential rain starting Saturday, November 4, 2023, prompting urgent warnings for nearly 20 million people across Los Angeles, Ventura, and Santa Barbara counties.
Meteorologists predict that this storm could lead to one of the wettest November weekends in four decades for Los Angeles, with forecasts suggesting up to 5 inches of rain in some areas. Flash flood watches are set to commence at 1 a.m. Saturday and continue through 10 p.m. Saturday.
According to Ryan Kittell from the National Weather Service, “We’re looking for a long duration of widespread rain, with 12 to 24 hours of nonstop precipitation expected.” The atmospheric river, categorized as AR Category 3, poses both beneficial and hazardous conditions, making it particularly dangerous.
Residents are advised to avoid nonessential travel and to take precautions against potential flash flooding and debris flows, especially in areas affected by recent wildfires. The burn scars in Altadena, Pacific Palisades, and Claremont are under close scrutiny, with evacuation warnings in place until 11 a.m. Sunday.
As of 6 p.m. Friday, downtown Los Angeles had already recorded 0.25 inches of rain, but totals could soar to an additional 2.6 inches by the end of the storm. The NWS has identified a 40% chance for intense rainfall leading to flash flooding, which is alarming for a region that is not typically prone to such severe weather.
Officials urge all residents to remain vigilant. “It’s best to be overprepared instead of underprepared,” Kittell warned, highlighting the unpredictable nature of this storm system.
While most of Southern California will experience manageable rainfall, a specific band of intense rain could result in rapid mud flows, particularly in the aforementioned burn areas. The NWS indicates there’s about a one-in-three chance of this concentrated rainfall occurring over these vulnerable spots.
In anticipation of the storm’s impact, the Los Angeles Fire Department has deployed resources citywide, including a 22-member strike team ready to respond to emergencies related to flooding and mudslides. Fire Chief Jaime Moore advised residents to stay indoors and enjoy family time to minimize exposure to the dangers outside.
Thunderstorms are also forecasted, bringing the potential for damaging winds and even a weak tornado. The NWS has noted a 25% chance of thunderstorms in San Diego, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties, further complicating the storm’s impact.
As the storm continues to develop, residents are urged to stay informed and heed any evacuation orders or alerts. With two additional storms potentially on the horizon next week, authorities are closely monitoring the situation, ensuring that resources are in place to tackle any resulting emergencies.
Stay tuned for live updates throughout the storm as conditions evolve and officials respond to the challenges posed by this weather event.
