LOS ANGELES, CA – As an atmospheric river continues to unleash heavy rain across parts of California, the National Weather Service is forecasting a “dramatic weather day” for Los Angeles in the coming days. The system is expected to bring significant rainfall to the area, with downtown Los Angeles projected to receive over 6 inches of rain through Tuesday, and surrounding areas possibly seeing 5-10 inches. This forecast has raised concerns of potential landslides, flash flooding, falling trees, power outages, and high waves in affected areas.
To put this in perspective, the average annual rainfall for Los Angeles is 12.23 inches, meaning that nearly half a year’s worth of rain could fall in the next 48 hours. The potential for almost a year’s worth of rain in the first week of February alone, combined with the recent rainfall on February 1, poses a significant risk for the city.
In addition to the heavy rainfall, high river levels are expected to contribute to flash flooding, posing a risk of drowning for anyone near the channel area. Areas at higher altitudes may also be impacted by heavy snow, potentially leading to road closures. Local officials are urging residents to stay off the roads through at least Monday morning and to heed any evacuation orders in place.
As the region braces for the impact of the atmospheric river, it’s crucial for residents to stay informed about the latest developments and to heed the advice of local authorities. The upcoming weather conditions will require proactive measures to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.