Heavy rain has arrived in Southern California, offering some relief to firefighters battling wildfires in the Los Angeles area. But while the rain is helping to put out the fires, it’s also causing problems of its own. Flash Flood Warnings have been issued, and mudslides and debris flows are affecting burn-scarred areas, which means road closures and school shutdowns in parts of the region.
The rain started on Sunday, and while it’s not a downpour by any means, it’s been enough to create significant challenges. For example, in Woodland Hills, debris and mud came rushing down a hillside, trapping several vehicles. The Los Angeles Fire Department was quick to respond, but the rain has made things tricky for both residents and emergency crews.
Meanwhile, a major storm system is developing across the U.S., and it looks like it could bring big changes this week. Forecasters are watching closely as this storm could bring several feet of snow to parts of the Southwest and Plains, while also sparking severe weather like thunderstorms and possibly even tornadoes in parts of the Southeast and Gulf Coast. The storm is also linked to the rain in Southern California, so this system is expected to keep moving east, affecting a wide area.
Not far from this storm, another clipper system is charging its way toward the Northeast. This one is expected to bring snow squalls and high winds, putting millions of people in the region on alert for hazardous conditions. Cities and towns from the Great Lakes to the Northeast could face whiteout conditions and gusts of wind up to 60 mph starting Monday night. Travelers are advised to be cautious as this fast-moving storm could cause disruptions.
In a more uplifting story, the power of wearable technology helped save lives in Washington state. Skiers at Steven’s Pass got into trouble when one skier fell and injured their leg. Luckily, the injured skier was able to send an SOS alert from an Apple Watch, which helped rescuers pinpoint their location and get them to safety. In total, three skiers were rescued thanks to the quick response and the technology that led the way.
With weather events happening all across the country, it’s important to stay informed and be prepared for whatever comes your way.
