Flood Alerts Across California
California placed at least 11 million residents under flood watch Monday as storms swept through the state. Forecasters predict heavy rain, snow, and flash flooding over the week. Coastal and valley areas could receive up to 4 inches of rain, while the foothills and mountains may get as much as 7 inches.
Residents in Los Angeles County’s burn scar zones face a high risk of mudslides as rainfall accumulates. Authorities issued evacuation orders for the Palisades, Sunset, and Hurst burn scar areas through Tuesday evening. Mayor Karen Bass urged citizens to follow official guidance and prepare for a significant weather event.
“First responders, Public Works crews, and City personnel are taking action to keep Angelenos safe and will respond to any impacts,” Bass wrote on X.
Burn scar areas, where wildfires stripped vegetation and changed soil composition, repel water like pavement. This runoff can trigger flash flooding, debris flow, and mudslides, according to the National Weather Service.
Bay Area Flood Warnings
San Francisco’s Department of Emergency Management warned residents in low-lying areas of potential flooding. Some Bay Area locations remain under coastal flood advisory through Tuesday. Officials encouraged people to clear storm drains and check on neighbors during extreme weather conditions.
High Winds and Snow Threats
The storm system will bring intense rain and wind gusts up to 70 mph as it moves east across California on Tuesday. Meteorologists forecast 5 to 8 feet of snow in the Sierra Nevada from Tuesday through Wednesday. Heavy snow can create hazardous travel, but it will help replenish the region’s critically low snowpack, vital for water supplies and wildfire prevention.
Climate experts have raised alarms about widespread snowpack deficits across the West this year. Philip Mote, a professor at Oregon State University, noted that Washington, Oregon, California, and other Western states experienced record-warm December temperatures. Much of the rain from earlier storms bypassed the mountains, reducing snow accumulation.
As the system moves east on Wednesday, it will deliver beneficial snow to the Rocky Mountains, easing water shortages in that region.
