California is bracing for a powerful storm that could bring heavy rain, strong winds, and even snow — and it’s raising big concerns for people still recovering from recent wildfires.
On Tuesday, officials issued evacuation warnings for areas around the Eaton and Palisades burn scars from January’s fires. With heavy rain on the way, there’s a serious risk of mudslides and flooding for homes and businesses that managed to survive the flames.
Dr. Ariel Cohen from the National Weather Service warned that the incoming storm could be unpredictable. “We could see minimal impact, or we could end up with dangerous debris flows, flooding, and damaging wind gusts,” he said.
Forecasters expect 1 to 4 inches of rain through the end of the week, which could cause dangerous runoff in areas with wildfire damage. Burned soil doesn’t absorb water well, so it often leads to fast-moving floods and mudslides.
Authorities are urging people in Southern California to stay prepared and have multiple ways to get emergency alerts. “Residents should be ready to evacuate now due to the serious risk of flash flooding and debris flows,” officials warned.
The most dangerous time for this storm is expected late Wednesday into early Thursday, with rain falling as fast as an inch per hour. Nearly 20 million people across California, including in Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Oceanside, and San Diego, are under a Flood Watch.
Although it’s late in the season for this kind of storm, many locals welcome the rain as California’s dry season is just around the corner in late spring. Still, while the storm will help with drought conditions, Dr. Cohen noted that the state will need more consistent rainfall to truly recover.
In the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the storm is also bringing heavy snowfall. Forecasts predict 3 to 4 feet of snow in higher elevations — a much-needed boost for the state’s below-average snowpack this year.
As California waits to see how this storm plays out, there’s hope that more rain and snow in the coming weeks could help replenish water supplies. But with the risk of flash floods and mudslides looming, officials are urging everyone to stay safe and stay ready.
