The Onslaught: Raging Storms and Powerlessness
A cacophony of chaos engulfs California as a whopping 160,000 homes and businesses are left powerless, thanks to the torrential downpour and hurricane-strength winds from yet another atmospheric river. The storm leaves a trail of destruction in its wake: uprooted trees, mangled power lines, and weather alerts that affect over 35 million residents. Hindered by flooding and myriad obstacles, Pacific Gas and Electric—the state’s major utility provider—struggles to restore power.
San Francisco’s Plight: Injuries, Delays, and Gale-force Winds
In the foggy city by the bay, the storm spares no one. Five souls suffer injuries due to falling trees. San Francisco International Airport finds itself in the grip of a relentless windstorm, with ground delays stretching over four hours. Hurricane-force gusts batter southern California and Oakland, mercilessly.
Southern California Braces for Impact
Frigid winds and snow pummel Riverside and San Bernardino counties’ mountains, forcing residents to stockpile supplies as transportation stalls. Already drenched with over 2 inches of rainfall by Tuesday afternoon, Southern California prepares for more on Wednesday. The National Weather Service anxiously anticipates rapid runoff, flooding, and mudslides.
Atmospheric Rivers: A Season of Devastation
This winter has unleashed 12 atmospheric rivers upon California, resulting in floods, displaced citizens, and crumbling infrastructure. Scientists connect the dots between climate change and increased atmospheric moisture, leading to harsher rainfall and flash floods. Cities statewide report staggering 150-200% of their average rainfall since October 1.
Prognosis: Forecasts and Looming Floods
The National Weather Service forecasts that the deluge, snow, and fierce winds will persist across central and southern California on Wednesday, with gradual relief on Thursday. The flood threat escalates to a moderate level from Los Angeles to San Diego as saturated soil from previous storms exacerbates the risk of flooding and rapid runoffs.
Evacuation Exodus: Mudslides and Snowstorms
Evacuations numbering in the thousands occur in Tulare County as multiple waterways breach their banks. Anxiety over mudslides and heavy snow triggers increased vigilance and preparation by emergency crews. Firefighters maintain a watchful eye on wildfire burn scars, and rescuers gear up to tackle challenging situations resulting from mudslides and snowstorms.
Bracing for Impact: Storms, Safety, and Stalwart Measures
This tempestuous storm threatens to unleash wind gusts up to 75 mph in Southern California, heightening the risk of fallen trees and downed power lines. Sierra Nevada and Southern California’s mountains brace for a staggering 3-4 feet of snow accumulation, which could strain infrastructure and hinder travel.
In Tulare County, seven structures succumb to the storm, with over 680 damaged by floods. Crews concentrate their efforts on safeguarding people near vulnerable wildfire burn scars, where scorched soil’s diminished absorption rate heightens the danger of mud and debris slides.
Firefighters and crew members from Cal Fire and the National Guard respond to this season’s relentless storms. Yucaipa Fire Chief Grant Malinowski likens the situation to fire season, emphasizing the importance of heeding evacuation orders and preparing for swift mudslide occurrences.
Mountain communities confront the challenge of heavy snow stranding residents. San Bernardino County officials mobilize public works employees for round-the-clock snow plowing and storm patrol. County Flood Control District crews work in shifts throughout the storm, while additional sheriff deputies bolster routine patrols for the next two weeks.
