California Thechieftainspear – California is preparing for the arrival of a major Pacific storm, bringing heavy rain, mountain snow, and the potential for dangerous conditions across the state. Authorities have issued evacuation warnings and road closures in areas prone to flooding, mudslides, and debris flows, particularly in Los Angeles and Malibu.
Storm Arrives Ahead of Stronger System
Light rain began falling in California on Wednesday afternoon, acting as a precursor to the more powerful storm expected to arrive overnight. According to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Los Angeles, the heaviest rainfall will occur late Wednesday into early Thursday, with steady rain tapering off by 8 a.m. PDT.
Meteorologists warn that this storm is part of a larger system expected to impact much of the central U.S. in the coming days. AccuWeather reports that severe weather conditions could follow, making this storm one of the most significant of the year.
Heavy Rain and Mudslide Risks in Southern California
The storm is expected to bring torrential downpours to cities including San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. Rainfall rates may reach up to an inch per hour, increasing the risk of flooding, mudslides, and debris flows—especially in regions that experienced major wildfires earlier this year.
Authorities have issued evacuation warnings for parts of Los Angeles affected by the Palisades, Sunset, and Hurst wildfires, along with over two dozen neighborhoods in Malibu. Officials are urging residents in these areas to be prepared for potential evacuations due to the heightened threat of flash flooding and mudslides.
Several major roads, including sections of Pacific Coast Highway, Las Flores Canyon Road, and Malibu Canyon Road, have been temporarily closed to ensure public safety.
Health Advisory for Coastal Waters
In anticipation of storm runoff, the Los Angeles County Department of Health has advised the public to avoid ocean water due to the likelihood of increased bacteria, chemicals, and debris washing into the sea. The advisory applies to all L.A. County beaches and will remain in effect until at least 4 p.m. Friday. Officials warn that entering the water near storm drains, creeks, and rivers could pose health risks.
Sierra Nevada Braces for Heavy Snow
Meanwhile, the Sierra Nevada region is set to receive between 1 to 3 feet of snow, creating hazardous travel conditions at higher elevations. The NWS has issued warnings for blizzard-like conditions, with wind gusts between 40-70 mph making driving treacherous. Avalanche risks are also elevated due to the intense snowfall.
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AccuWeather cautions that the same storm system could bring severe blizzards to parts of the northern Plains later this week as it moves east.
Fire Weather Warnings in the Southern Plains
While California deals with heavy rain and snow, dry and windy conditions across the southern High Plains are increasing wildfire risks. Red flag warnings have been issued in Texas, New Mexico, Colorado, Kansas, and Oklahoma, with western Texas expected to see the most extreme fire danger.
Severe Storms to Impact Central and Southern U.S.
As the storm progresses eastward, it is expected to bring severe thunderstorms to Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana. The NWS warns that these storms may produce damaging winds and large hail by Thursday.
By Friday and into the weekend, this massive storm system will impact over 100 million people, bringing blizzards to the northern Plains, severe thunderstorms in the Midwest, and tornado threats in the South. AccuWeather has labeled it as possibly “the most significant severe weather outbreak of the year” so far.
Authorities across the affected regions are urging residents to stay informed and prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions .
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