LOS ANGELES — Southern California has been inundated by torrential rains, especially on Friday, triggering new flash flood warnings and raising concerns for mudslides in areas still recovering from recent wildfires. As the National Weather Service noted, parts of Los Angeles and Orange counties were particularly affected, with rainfall shaping roads into streams, exemplified by conditions in coastal Huntington Beach.
The persistent storms that began on November 13 are historic, with downtown Los Angeles receiving over four times its average November rainfall — approximately 3.5 inches, compared to the typical 0.78 inches. The downpour has resulted in several vehicles getting stuck in floodwaters, and the weather service has issued warnings across various affected regions.
Santa Barbara County experienced significant moisture, registering more than 15 inches in the Santa Ynez Mountains. With continued rainfall predictions, communities are on alert for further flooding and potential landslides.
This atmospheric river, a concentrated flow of moisture from the tropics, has already caused fatalities earlier this month, showcasing the destructive potential when combined with California's existing vulnerabilities due to past wildfires. As meteorological conditions persist, residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepared for the threats posed by such intense weather patterns.
