California Faces a Soggy, Deadly Christmas: Second Storm Threatens Already Battered State
California is bracing for another round of severe winter weather on Christmas Day, just as communities begin to recover from a powerful storm that swept through the state. The National Weather Service has issued flood watches and warnings stretching from the Oregon border to Los Angeles, with fears of renewed mudslides and debris flows, particularly in areas recently scarred by wildfires. Tragically, authorities report two weather-related deaths, underscoring the immediate danger posed by these storms. This is a breaking news situation, and archyde.com is providing continuous updates.
Flash Flood Warnings and Evacuation Orders Issued Across Southern California
While the initial storm’s intensity is easing, a new system is poised to deliver additional heavy showers and possible thunderstorms, potentially making this Southern California’s wettest Christmas in years. The focus of immediate concern is Southern California, where areas burned by the 2024 Bridge Fire and the Airport Fire are under evacuation orders. These areas, stripped of vegetation, are particularly vulnerable to mud and debris flows. San Bernardino County has been hit especially hard, with firefighters conducting door-to-door checks and issuing shelter-in-place orders in Wrightwood, a resort town in the San Gabriel Mountains. Reports indicate homes have been partially submerged, and multiple rescues were performed Wednesday as mud and debris washed onto roadways.
“I’ve seen some heavy rain, but I’ve never seen rain last this long, as heavy and with this amount of rain – and obviously because of our fire, we have a lot of mud and debris flows,” said Janice Fast, president of Wrightwood’s Digital Chamber of Commerce, a 50-year resident. The San Bernardino County Fire Department expressed its heartbreak that many families will be unable to celebrate Christmas at home due to the ongoing impacts.
Northern California and the Sierra Nevada Also Under Threat
The threat isn’t limited to Southern California. Flood and wind warnings extend into the Sacramento Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area, with the Nationwide Climate Service predicting strong winds, heavy rain, and even the possibility of twisters through Thursday morning. Further north, the Sierra Nevada is experiencing “white-out conditions” with heavy snow and a “considerable” avalanche risk around Lake Tahoe. Travel is extremely hazardous, and a winter storm warning remains in effect.
Power Outages and Infrastructure Impacts
The storms have already taken a toll on infrastructure. Approximately 158,000 homes and businesses across the state remain without electricity. Sections of Interstate 5 near the Burbank Airport have been closed due to flooding, disrupting travel plans for many during the peak holiday season. A weather-related crash south of Sacramento tragically claimed the life of a Sacramento sheriff’s deputy, James Caravallo, a 19-year veteran of the agency. A falling tree branch also resulted in a fatality in San Diego.
Atmospheric Rivers: The Driving Force Behind the Extreme Weather
These relentless storms are fueled by multiple atmospheric rivers – long, narrow bands of concentrated moisture flowing from the tropics. These events are becoming increasingly common and intense due to climate change, bringing the potential for both devastating floods and crucial water replenishment to drought-prone California. Historically, California has adapted to periods of drought and flood, but the increasing frequency and intensity of these extreme weather events are testing the state’s resilience.
Southern California typically receives a modest half-inch to one inch of rain around Christmas, but this week’s forecast calls for 4 to 8 inches in many areas, with even higher amounts in the mountains. This dramatic increase in precipitation, combined with the vulnerability of burn scars, creates a dangerous situation.
State of Emergency Declared and Resources Mobilized
Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in six counties, allowing for the rapid deployment of state assistance. Emergency resources and first responders have been dispatched to affected areas, and the California National Guard is on standby. This proactive response is crucial in mitigating the impacts of the storms and ensuring the safety of residents.
As California navigates this challenging weather event, staying informed and heeding evacuation orders is paramount. The situation remains fluid, and archyde.com will continue to provide the latest updates and resources to help you stay safe. For real-time information on road closures, power outages, and evacuation orders, please visit CalOES and your local county emergency management websites. Remember, prioritizing safety is the most important gift you can give this holiday season.
