California storm prompts flooding, strong winds with almost 850,000 without electricity
Flooding in California (Getty Images)
California is dealing with strong storms with heavy rain and strong winds. It caused flooding, power outages for almost 850,000 people, and a rare warning for hurricane-force winds. The storm hit the San Francisco Bay Area, bringing down trees and power lines with winds reaching over 60 mph in some areas, according to CNN and AP News.
The central and southern parts of the state, including Los Angeles and San Diego, are expected to get the most rain and flooding. Combined with the rain earlier in the week, Los Angeles could reach almost a year's worth of rain in just a week.
Storm in California (Getty Images)
The storm caused widespread power outages, with more than 847,000 customers without electricity. Flights are delayed or canceled, and even sporting events have been called off.
There is a warning about dangerous flash floods that could be life-threatening. The rain could come down at an inch per hour, bringing 3 to 6 inches of rain in the area. Residents of the affected areas are being told to leave their homes to stay safe from the potential floods and landslides.
The storm is causing the first-ever warning for hurricane-force winds in San Francisco. Wind speeds of 40 to 60 mph are expected, with gusts as high as 95 mph in some areas. Almost 30 million people across the state are under wind advisories or warnings.
Storm in California (Getty Images)
The storm is also bringing heavy snow to eastern California and the Nevada border. Evacuation orders were in place for mountain and canyon areas, with shelters set up for displaced residents.
California is dealing with a unique weather event called an "atmospheric river" that causes heavy rain. This storm is expected to last longer than the previous one, with the culmination between Sunday and Tuesday.
Officials are warning about flooded roads, swollen rivers, and other dangers. The governor is preparing the state for the worst, with equipment and personnel ready to respond to emergencies. The impact of strong winds will be felt across the state, affecting millions of people.
Evacuation orders were issued for various areas. Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties.
Over 8,500 emergency staff, including teams for water rescues and helicopters, are ready all over California to help if anyone needs assistance, according to Nancy Ward, chief of the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services.
In December 2023, a powerful storm impacted an eastern part of the United States, affecting an estimated 180 million people. Heavy rain, strong winds, snow, and severe thunderstorms hit the region.
