Powerful Storm Hits California, Threatening Floods and Mudslides

A severe storm system has struck California, bringing heavy rains that could lead to significant flooding and mudslides across Southern California. On December 25, 2023, the region is expected to experience its wettest Christmas in years, following a previous storm that resulted in at least two fatalities due to flooding and strong winds.

Forecasters have expressed concern that the incoming rain could exacerbate the risk of debris flows, particularly in areas previously affected by wildfires. These burn scar zones, stripped of vegetation, are less capable of absorbing moisture. In response to the heightened risk, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department issued an evacuation warning for the mountain town of Wrightwood, located approximately 80 miles northeast of Los Angeles.

Emergency services reported that on December 24, firefighters rescued individuals trapped in vehicles as mud and debris cascaded down roads leading into Wrightwood. The town, home to around 5,000 residents, saw its streets inundated with rocks and thick mud, making travel hazardous. In total, over 120,000 people across California were reported without power, as utility companies struggled to restore electricity amid the chaotic conditions.

“It’s really a crazy Christmas,” said resident Jill Jenkins, who was spending the holiday with her 13-year-old grandson, Hunter Lopiccolo. The family nearly evacuated the day before when floodwaters threatened their home, but they ultimately chose to remain and celebrate together. Lopiccolo shared that they spent the night playing card games by candlelight, enjoying their holiday despite the circumstances.

Another resident, Arlene Corte, noted that while roads had transformed into rivers, her home remained intact. “It could be a whole lot worse,” she remarked, reflecting on the challenges faced by her community.

As the storm continues, over 150 firefighters remain stationed in the area, ready to respond to any emergencies. “We’re all hands on deck at this point,” stated San Bernardino County Fire spokesman Shawn Millerick.

The storm has already claimed lives, including a man in San Diego who died when a tree fell on him, and a Sacramento sheriff’s deputy who was involved in a weather-related accident. Evacuation orders have also been issued for residents near burn scar areas from the Airport Fire in Orange County. Along the coast, including regions like Malibu, flood watches are in effect, with additional wind and flood advisories impacting much of the Sacramento Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area.

Meteorologists attribute the severe weather to multiple atmospheric rivers carrying moisture from tropical regions. Typically, Southern California receives between half an inch and one inch of rain during this time of year, but current forecasts predict that many areas could see between 4 and 8 inches of rainfall, with even higher amounts in the mountains.

Snowfall is also expected in the Sierra Nevada, where wind gusts have created treacherous conditions, prompting officials to issue a winter storm warning through December 26. Ski resorts around Lake Tahoe reported between 1 to 3 feet of snow overnight, with predictions of an additional 3 feet by the end of the storm. Wind gusts could reach up to 100 miles per hour along mountain ridges, posing further challenges for both residents and travelers.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in six counties, allowing for state assistance in storm response. Emergency resources and first responders have been deployed to several coastal and Southern California regions, with the California National Guard on standby to assist as needed.

As the storm progresses, residents are urged to remain vigilant and heed evacuation orders to ensure safety during this significant weather event.