A powerful storm system has unleashed severe weather across California, bringing strong winds, heavy rainfall, and significant snowfall. While the storm was expected to ease on March 15, 2024, the risk of flash floods near Los Angeles, high surf along the coast, and avalanches in the Sierra Nevada remains a concern for residents and officials.
Along the San Francisco Bay Area, waves could soar to as much as 25 feet (7.6 meters) on Friday. In southern California, areas are under flood warnings, and authorities are particularly cautious regarding the town of Wrightwood, located approximately 80 miles (130 kilometers) northeast of Los Angeles, where mudslides are a threat. Residents have been advised to prepare for possible evacuation as conditions worsen.
The storm has been fueled by atmospheric rivers, which transported vast amounts of moisture from the tropics. This weather event has resulted in the wettest Christmas season in downtown Los Angeles in over 54 years, according to the National Weather Service. Tragically, the storms have been linked to at least two fatalities earlier in the week.
Roadways in Wrightwood have been obstructed by rocks, debris, and thick mud, making travel challenging. With power outages affecting the area, a local gas station and coffee shop have turned into vital lifelines for residents. Local resident Jill Jenkins shared her experience, stating, “It’s really a crazy Christmas,” while celebrating the holiday with her 13-year-old grandson, Hunter Lopiccolo. They narrowly avoided evacuation as floodwaters threatened their backyard.
In a heroic effort, Davey Schneider trekked through floodwaters reaching his shins to rescue cats from his grandfather’s home. “I wanted to help them out because I wasn’t confident that they were going to live,” he remarked. Fortunately, all the cats were safe, albeit shaken by the ordeal.
Despite the challenges, some residents like Arlene Corte noted that their homes remained intact. “It could be a whole lot worse,” she said. Local authorities are bracing for additional rainfall, with over 150 firefighters stationed in Wrightwood, according to Shawn Millerick, spokesperson for the San Bernardino County Fire Department. “We’re ready,” he affirmed, emphasizing the readiness of first responders.
The storm has also caused widespread disruptions, including a falling tree that resulted in a fatality in San Diego, as well as a weather-related crash that claimed the life of a sheriff’s deputy in Sacramento. Coastal areas, including Malibu, are under flood watches, with wind and flood advisories extending over much of the Sacramento Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area.
Typically, southern California receives between 0.5 and 1 inch (1.3 to 2.5 centimeters) of rain during this time of year. However, this week, many regions are experiencing rainfall totals between 4 and 8 inches (10 to 20 centimeters), with even higher accumulations in the mountainous areas, as stated by meteorologist Mike Wofford from the National Weather Service. Heavy snow and strong winds are expected in the Sierra Nevada, creating treacherous travel conditions.
In response to the widespread impact of the storm, California’s Governor Gavin Newsom declared emergencies in six counties to facilitate state assistance. Resources and first responders have been mobilized across southern California, with the California National Guard on standby to assist as needed. The state’s proactive measures aim to safeguard communities amid the ongoing severe weather.
