Full Breakdown
Severe Weather Impacts Southern California: Rain, Flooding, and Landslides
11/18/2025, 10:21:12 PM
Overview of Recent Storms
Southern California, particularly Los Angeles County, has experienced significant rainfall over the past week, with a series of storms causing scattered showers and localized flooding. Following four consecutive days of rain, the National Weather Service indicated that additional rain is expected on Thursday and Friday, with forecasts predicting between half an inch to an inch of precipitation, and up to two inches in mountainous areas.
Rainfall Totals and Weather Conditions
As of Monday evening, downtown Los Angeles recorded 0.74 inches of rain in a 24-hour period, while other areas reported higher totals: Porter Ranch received 1.61 inches, La Cañada Flintridge 1.5 inches, and Warm Springs Camp recorded 2.5 inches over 18 hours. The storms have led to cooler temperatures, with coastal areas struggling to reach the mid-60s. Snow levels in the region have also fluctuated, with expectations of snow accumulation between 2 to 5 inches in the mountains.
Impact on Infrastructure and Safety
The recent storms have caused disruptions, including flooding on major highways such as the 5 Freeway near Highway 14 and the 91 Freeway at Carmenita Road. Reports indicated that motorists faced hazardous conditions, with one vehicle becoming stuck in mud on Angeles Crest Highway, and multiple landslides blocking lanes. The California Highway Patrol noted that several onramps to the 10 Freeway in El Monte experienced flooding, complicating travel in the area.
Official Statements & Responses
The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for the eastern San Gabriel Mountains and northern Ventura County mountains, warning of potential snow and advising caution for travelers. Officials have emphasized that while the storms have caused some mayhem, there have been no reports of severe or life-threatening damage in recently burned areas.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the challenges posed by the storms, some residents have expressed frustration over the preparedness of local authorities in managing the flooding and landslide risks. Critics argue that more proactive measures could have been taken to mitigate the impact on infrastructure and ensure public safety during severe weather events.
Verbatim Quotes
- “As for the Grapevine area, there is a chance of a dusting of snow Tuesday morning as the snow levels lower,” — National Weather Service
- “The storms, thus far, have caused some mayhem but no severe or life-threatening damage in recently burned areas.” — National Weather Service
- “Snowplows couldn’t haul away the debris because it was too heavy.” — Report from the National Weather Service
What's Next
Looking ahead, the weather is expected to clear up by the weekend, with drier and warmer conditions anticipated for the Thanksgiving holiday week. However, residents are advised to remain vigilant as the upcoming storm could still pose risks of flooding and landslides in vulnerable areas.
