Early-Season Storm Brings Heavy Rain and Flooding Threat to Southern California
An early-season storm is set to impact Southern California, with forecasts predicting heavy rainfall and potential flooding on Tuesday. As this storm system develops in the Pacific Northwest, it is expected to move southward by early Tuesday morning. The National Weather Service indicates that light to moderate pre-frontal rain may begin as early as Monday evening across the Southland.
Weather Alerts and Conditions
In anticipation of this weather event, KCAL News has issued a Next Weather Alert for a majority of Southern California for both Tuesday and Wednesday. Meteorologists anticipate widespread rainfall, stronger winds, and a significant drop in temperatures.
Meteorologist Marina Jurica warns that temperatures will fall sharply on Tuesday, with highs only reaching the 60s and lows dipping to the 40s. As the storm progresses, onshore winds will increase, adding to the chill in the air.
Flood Watches Issued
The National Weather Service has declared a flood watch and a flash flood watch for regions affected by recent burn scars in San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, Ventura, and Los Angeles Counties. Rainfall rates are expected to be between 0.25 and 0.50 inches per hour.
The peak rainfall in Ventura County is expected between 1 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Tuesday, while those in Los Angeles County can anticipate similar conditions from 5 a.m. through 3 p.m. The storm is expected to clear the area by Tuesday night, although the cool conditions will remain.
Evacuation Warnings in Impact Zones
The Emergency Management Department has issued an evacuation warning for certain parts of Southern California due to the threat of debris flows. This warning will be active from 10 p.m. Monday through 6 a.m. Wednesday. Residents in zones LFD-1081, 1083, 1085, 1087, 1089, and others have been advised to prepare for potential evacuations.
The Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD) is conducting door-to-door visits to provide information to high-risk homes near burn scars, such as those near the Eaton and Palisades areas.
American Red Cross Shelters have been established ahead of the storm, available at the Sierra Madre YMCA and Stoner Recreation Center in Los Angeles, to provide refuge for those in need.
School and University Adjustments
In response to the storm, Pepperdine University will shift to remote instruction for its Malibu and Calabasas campuses on Tuesday, although classes at its West LA and Irvine campuses will continue in person. Expect a return to in-person classes on Wednesday.
Preparing with Sandbags
To aid residents in preparation for the storm, the Los Angeles Fire Department and Los Angeles County Public Works are providing free sandbags. Residents can find ready-to-fill sandbags at neighborhood fire stations, with sand also available in select city locations.
Sandbags are crucial for diverting moving water and safeguarding properties from potential flood damage. Visit this link to locate an LAFD station near you.
Stay informed and take the necessary precautions as Southern California braces for this storm.
