SAN DIEGO, California – Southern California is bracing for the arrival of two powerful storms that are expected to bring heavy rainfall and potential flooding to the region. The first storm is set to hit on Thursday, accompanied by gusty winds and significant rainfall. More than 20 million people in California are under flood alerts as flash flooding threatens cities like San Diego, Sacramento, San Francisco, San Jose, and Oakland. This threat is expected to persist until Friday morning.
After a brief respite, another, stronger atmospheric river is forecasted to move across Southern California starting on Sunday. Rainy conditions are expected to continue throughout the month as the El Niño weather pattern takes hold. El Niño is a natural phenomenon in the tropical Pacific that influences weather patterns globally, causing changes in the jet stream and directing storms towards California. These storms can tap into an extra-potent supply of moisture known as an atmospheric river.
The first storm arrived in Northern California on Wednesday and has now begun to shift south, bringing steady rainfall to central California. By Thursday morning, Southern California will experience steady rainfall, along with periods of stronger winds and cooler temperatures. The southern part of the state could see rainfall amounts ranging from 1 to 4 inches, with rates potentially exceeding 1 inch per hour. There is a Level 2 out of 4 risk of excessive rainfall for Southern California, with roads and low-lying areas at the highest risk of flooding.
Flood watches will remain in effect across central California until Thursday evening, with rainfall totals of 1 to 3 inches possible and isolated areas potentially receiving over 4 inches. Meanwhile, the western half of California may experience thunderstorms that could bring bursts of heavier rain. To prepare for the potential impacts, California officials have readied hundreds of crew members from various agencies to respond to rescue calls.
In addition to heavy rainfall, parts of Northern California and the Sierra Nevada are expected to receive accumulating snow. Winter storm warnings are in effect for the Sierra Nevada, where up to 4 feet of snow are possible in higher elevations. The snow is crucial for California’s snowpack, which has been below average this winter. The state’s Office of Emergency Services has mobilized swift water personnel and equipment in 12 counties.
Looking ahead, Friday will bring showery weather that is expected to linger over much of California. However, the National Weather Service in Los Angeles has warned that another major storm fueled by an atmospheric river is set to arrive on Sunday. This storm could potentially become the largest of the season, with the meteorologists anticipating a serious 2 to 3 day storm system. Forecasts show a widespread and prolonged flood threat, especially for Southern California. This storm could stall over the region, bringing several inches of rain from Sunday to midweek. Cooler temperatures are also expected, with the potential for more widespread snowfall down to lower elevations.
As California prepares for the onslaught of storms, the state’s governor’s office and Office of Emergency Services are working diligently to deploy life-saving equipment and resources statewide. The swift response teams are ready to assist wherever needed. With more storms on the horizon, Californians are urged to stay vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.