Southern California Faces New Year's Storm with Flood Risks

Southern California is preparing for a significant storm system as it enters the New Year, following a series of heavy rains that have already saturated the region. The National Weather Service (NWS) has forecasted rainfall totals ranging from 1 to 2.5 inches in coastal and valley areas, with 2 to 5.5 inches expected in foothill and mountain communities. The storm is anticipated to bring heavy downpours starting Wednesday night and continuing into New Year's Day, raising concerns about flooding, mudslides, and debris flows, particularly in areas previously affected by wildfires.

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The upcoming storm follows a record-setting deluge over Christmas, which saw rainfall totals of up to 18 inches in some areas, leading to road closures, flash flood warnings, and significant impacts on local infrastructure. For instance, Santa Barbara Airport temporarily closed due to flooding on the airfield, and Lake Cachuma reached near capacity for the first time since the 1980s, prompting proactive water releases to manage overflow risks.

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In response to the anticipated storm, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced the pre-positioning of emergency resources, including seven swift-water rescue teams and multiple fire engines, across Los Angeles and Ventura counties. Evacuation warnings have been issued for burn scar areas, including regions affected by the Franklin and Palisades fires, effective from 11 a.m. Wednesday. The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors is set to ratify a local emergency proclamation to expedite recovery efforts.

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The saturated ground poses a heightened risk for mudslides and rockslides, particularly in vulnerable canyons and hillsides. The NWS has indicated that the storm could lead to downed trees and power outages due to high winds, with gusts expected to reach 30 to 50 mph. Residents are advised to avoid travel during peak rainfall and to stay clear of flood-prone areas.

Flood warning issued for Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties as heavy rain moves in

Despite the preparations, some residents express frustration over the repeated weather-related disruptions. Community members in areas like Wrightwood, which suffered severe damage from previous storms, are concerned about the adequacy of emergency responses and the long-term impacts on their homes and infrastructure.

Flood warning issued for Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, and Ventura counties as heavy rain moves in

Governor Newsom emphasized the importance of preparedness, stating, “By pre-positioning emergency crews and activating resources in advance, we can respond faster and more effectively if conditions deteriorate.” The NWS has warned that the upcoming storm, while less intense than the previous one, still poses significant risks due to the already saturated soil.

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• “Because of the saturated, really wet soils, we do have that high risk for downed trees with really any wind as well as rock slides and mud slides,” — Ryan Kittell, Meteorologist, NWS

LAist

• “The chances of a wet New Years Parade, and including the night before when people camp out before the parade, are extremely high, 80-90% at this point,” — National Weather Service Statement

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As the storm approaches, residents are encouraged to stay informed through local emergency alerts and to prepare for potential disruptions. The NWS anticipates that the storm will continue into the weekend, with additional rainfall expected, further complicating recovery efforts from the recent deluge.

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