California is currently experiencing one of the most powerful storms of the season, impacting regions including Los Angeles, which is still recovering from recent wildfires. Residents are on high alert for potential mudslides, landslides, and flash floods.
As the severe thunderstorms advance from Pasadena to Malibu, the National Weather Service reports fierce wind gusts reaching up to 70 mph. The storm's intensity may even lead to the formation of a weak tornado, with the San Fernando Valley and San Gabriel Valley feeling the brunt of these explosive conditions. Nearby Oxnard, about 60 miles from Los Angeles, witnessed the possibility of a tornado impacting a mobile home park.
Warnings for severe thunderstorms and flash floods were issued, targeting vital areas including Los Angeles, Glendale, and Santa Clarita. These areas were under alert until the evening, with the potential for more than 6 inches of rainfall in the mountainous regions exacerbating the risk of developing mudslides and landslides, especially in areas recently ravaged by the Palisades and Eaton fires.
In preparation, LA Mayor Karen Bass highlighted the city's efforts to minimize storm damage. Measures included clearing drainage systems of fire residues, distributing over 6,500 sandbags, establishing concrete barriers, and implementing systems to manage polluted runoff. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department has been instrumental in assisting by distributing sandbags and educating residents on debris safety.
Evacuation plans have been set for areas affected by earlier fires, with convincing reminders for residents to prioritize safety over property. Your safety is paramount, emphasized Sheriff Robert Luna, urging residents to heed evacuation orders to avoid being trapped by flooding or debris.
School closures across Malibu on Thursday reflect predictions of continued severe weather, with uncertainties about when conditions will improve.
Beyond Los Angeles, this storm system extended north, initially striking the San Francisco Bay Area, generating rain and wind gusts of up to 62 mph. Flood watches are stretching from San Francisco down to San Diego.
Meanwhile, the storm has also resulted in significant snow in northern regions. Oregon's Portland area witnessed a massive traffic disruption on Interstate 84 due to blizzard conditions, though, fortunately, no serious injuries were reported. Significant snowfall is also expected in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, with predictions of up to 8 feet in some areas.
The region braces for further challenges as the storm subsides. Rainfall is expected to decrease overnight, although residual showers may persist into Friday.