Heaviest Rain Expected Overnight
Heavy rain is anticipated to persist in southern California until Monday morning. According to Michael Brennan, Director of the National Hurricane Center, the biggest concern lies in the potential for heaviest rain and flooding during the night. He cautioned that assessing a flooding situation akin to mudslides during the night can be more challenging. This will particularly be hazardous on major highways such as I-10, I-8, and I-40 that are expected to be affected by heavy rain.
Brennan stated that most parts of Nevada and some areas of southern Utah and western Arizona are also at risk of flooding. There’s also a potential for flooding in the Mojave Desert, the lower Colorado River Valley, and certain parts of southeastern California.
The last time such a powerful storm hit southern California was in 1939. Given that this region is more susceptible to disasters like wildfires and earthquakes, weather scientists note this as a rare occurrence.
On Saturday night, California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency for multiple counties, including Fresno, Imperial, Inyo, Kern, Los Angeles, Riverside, San Diego, San Bernardino, Tulare, Orange, and Ventura. Some communities, such as parts of San Bernardino County, have already received evacuation orders.
Amid the flood risks, Flood Operations Center, CAL FIRE, and California National Guard are prepared with watercraft and swift water rescue teams. State officials have urged residents to sign up for flood and evacuation alerts from their counties and to also prepare their pets and families if evacuation becomes necessary.
Anticipate the most intense downpour during the night hours.
Expect heavy rainfall in Southern California until Monday morning. According to Michael Brennan, the director of the National Hurricane Center, the greatest risk of sudden flooding lies in the areas of eastern San Diego, northern Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, and Death Valley.
During a live stream on Sunday morning, he stated, “What makes it even more concerning is that the heaviest rain and flooding potential will be during the night. So, you’ll definitely want to be in your safe place by early afternoon today.”
Brennan warned that monitoring flood situations like road washouts during the night is more challenging. This will be especially critical along major highways like I-10, I-8, and I-40, where the risk of being impacted by intense rainfall is high.
Brennan added that the majority of Nevada, some parts of southwestern Utah and western Arizona are also at risk of flooding. The Mojave Desert, the lower Colorado River Valley, and some portions of southeastern California also face the threat of flooding.
“Echoes of the Past: Southern California’s Most Powerful Storm Since 1939”
Southern California is expected to experience heavy rainfall until Monday morning. Here’s the scoop straight from Michael Brennan, the big shot over at the National Hurricane Center. He’s waving the warning flag for us and giving a heads-up about where the real flood risk is kicking in. Keep your eyes peeled if you’re in the eastern parts of San Diego, the upper corners of Los Angeles, the valleys of San Bernardino and Riverside, and yes, even the famous Death Valley. So, if you’re hanging out in these neck of the woods, it might be a good idea to keep those rain boots handy!
During a live stream on Sunday morning, he mentioned, “What makes it even more perilous is that the heaviest rain and flood risk will be during the night. So, it’s advisable to ensure you’re in a secure location well before this afternoon.”
Brennan cautioned that dealing with flood situations like waterlogging on roads becomes more challenging at night. This holds especially true for major highways like I-10, I-8, and I-40, where the risk of hazardous conditions due to intense rainfall is high.
He stated, “There’s also a potential flood threat for most parts of Nevada and some sections of southwestern Utah and western Arizona. The Mojave Desert, lower Colorado River Valley, and portions of southeastern California also face the risk of flash flooding.”
As you plan your day, keep in mind these important weather updates to stay safe and prepared.