California officials and weather forecasters have urged holiday travelers to stay off the roads during Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Powerful winter storms will strike the state, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and mountain snow through Friday. These conditions will make travel hazardous for millions.
The National Weather Service warned that multiple atmospheric rivers will pass through California. “If you’re planning to travel during the Christmas holidays, please reconsider your plans,” said Ariel Cohen, a meteorologist in Los Angeles.
Southern California may experience its wettest Christmas in years. Forecasters expect flash flooding, mudslides, and debris flows, particularly in areas affected by last year’s wildfires. As a precaution, Los Angeles County officials began visiting 380 vulnerable households to order evacuations.
On Tuesday, most areas saw light showers, but the storm is set to pick up intensity by Christmas Eve. Some regions will get a brief break before another storm arrives. The Sacramento Valley and San Francisco Bay Area are under flood watches and high wind warnings through Friday. The Sierra Nevada could experience heavy snow and gusty winds, making travel through mountain passes nearly impossible.
Forecasters also warned of severe thunderstorms and a slight chance of tornadoes along the northern coast. The heavy rain that began on Saturday in Northern California has already led to water rescues and one fatality. On Monday, Shasta County declared a state of emergency, preparing for more rain and rescue operations.
Southern California typically receives 0.5 to 1 inch of rain at this time of year. However, this week, many areas will see 4 to 8 inches of rain, with heavier amounts in the mountains. Winds could reach 60 to 80 mph on the central coast. The National Weather Service predicts widespread flooding, rockslides, and mudslides. Local authorities expect road closures, airport delays, and power outages due to downed trees and powerlines. Los Angeles issued evacuation warnings starting Tuesday.
To help protect residents, Los Angeles County set up K-rails around burn scars to catch sliding debris during storms. The county has also offered free sandbags to homeowners. Supervisor Kathryn Barger emphasized the seriousness of the storm, noting that experts had warned of significant rainfall in a short period.
Despite the evacuation orders, some residents in burned areas chose to stay. Police Chief Jim McDonnell urged them to reconsider, warning that the storm’s threat is imminent. “The situation is real and urgent,” he said.
State and local officials have readied their emergency response teams for the coming storms. The California National Guard stands by, and resources have been deployed to assist counties along the coast and in Southern California.
Atmospheric rivers, narrow bands of moisture carrying large amounts of water vapor, are expected to make landfall. Earlier this month, similar storms drenched Washington state, delivering nearly 5 trillion gallons of rain, causing serious flooding risks.
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