Southern California Faces Intense Storms and Flooding

LOS ANGELES – A powerful series of storms has begun impacting Southern California, with heavy rain starting on Monday. The National Weather Service (NWS) has responded by issuing numerous weather alerts, highlighting potential hazards for residents in the area.

Storm Forecast: What to Expect

Multiple Rounds of Rain

According to FOX 11 meteorologist Adam Krueger, the storm system is expected to arrive in three distinct waves. The first wave hit on Monday, with a second set of downpours anticipated from Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, followed by a final wave on Thursday. Residents should remain vigilant and avoid outdoor activities as conditions are predicted to become “unusually hazardous.”

Flooding Reports

Long Beach Roads Transform into Rivers

In Long Beach, high floodwaters have left many drivers stranded. As rain poured into the streets, overwhelmed storm drains failed to handle the volume, especially along Lincoln Street near the 710 Freeway, leading to significant flooding. Emergency crews were required to close a lane on the freeway in response to the rising water.

San Fernando Valley Struggles with Flooding

Regions including Sun Valley, North Hollywood, Burbank, and San Fernando have also been severely affected, experiencing extreme water accumulation and dangerous road conditions.

Safety Advisories

Ocean Water Quality Warning

Health officials in Los Angeles County have issued warnings encouraging the public to avoid contact with water, especially near storm drains, rivers, and beaches. Increased bacteria levels due to runoff can pose health risks, making it essential for residents to stay informed until the advisory is lifted on Saturday morning.

Flood Watch Extended

The NWS has announced that the flood watch for most of Los Angeles County has been extended until midnight on Monday. This alert typically indicates that conditions are favorable for flooding, making it critical for residents to stay indoors and monitor updates from reliable sources.

Travel Disruptions

In light of the severe weather, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has enacted a ground stop at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), further complicating travel plans for many. Additionally, a severe thunderstorm warning is in effect, causing fluctuation in scheduled flights.

Possible Severe Weather Events

The current storm system carries the potential for severe weather, including hail and even tornadoes. Meteorologists are closely monitoring conditions, with FOX 11’s Soumada Khan noting that sufficient atmospheric energy may lead to violent weather.

Evacuation Alerts

In light of the impending storms, the Los Angeles Fire Department has issued an evacuation warning for specific areas affected by previous fires, such as the Palisades and Sunset fire burn scar zones, urging residents to evacuate by 9 p.m. Sunday until at least Tuesday morning.

Proactive Measures

Los Angeles County has proactively announced road closures. Authorities are urging residents to remain prepared for continued rainfall:

• Angeles Forest Hwy: Closed from Aliso Canyon Rd to Highway 2.
• Big Tujunga Canyon Rd: Closed from Angeles Forest Hwy to Vogel Flat Road.
• Upper Big Tujunga Canyon Road: From Angeles Forest to Angeles Crest highways.

These closures aim to keep residents safe while crews work to clear debris and assess road conditions.

Rainfall Projections

The NWS forecasts a total of 2 to 4 inches of rain in coastal and valley areas, with amounts potentially hitting 4 to 8 inches in mountainous regions. Residents are advised to stay updated on the situation as forecasts evolve.

Prepare for the Coming Days

Timeline of Rainfall

• Monday, Feb. 16: Significant rain expected, with an 80% to 100% chance of precipitation.
• Tuesday, Feb. 17: Rain intensity will increase, especially at night.
• Wednesday, Feb. 18: Continued rainfall with a 50% to 70% chance of rain.
• Thursday, Feb. 19: Light showers may persist.
• Friday, Feb. 20: Rain chances decrease to 15% to 30%.

Clearing Weekend Ahead

Once the storm system passes, it is predicted that a clear window opens up with improved weather conditions by the weekend, allowing residents to dry out and recover from the storms.

For more information on the storms affecting Southern California, please refer to the National Weather Service for the latest updates and alerts.