Southern California residents are bracing for more dangerous flooding this weekend as a series of back-to-back storms continues to slam the region, bringing heavy rainfall, triggering evacuation warnings, and raising concerns about mudslides in wildfire-scarred areas.
Following record-breaking rainfall that drenched the region on New Year's Day, another significant storm system is moving through Southern California, with the most intense rainfall expected to hit on Saturday. The National Weather Service has forecast that foothill and mountain areas could receive 3 to 6 inches of rain through the weekend, while most other parts of Los Angeles are likely to see 1 to 3 inches.
Evacuation warnings are now in effect for neighborhoods across Los Angeles County, particularly in areas surrounding recent burn scars. The City of Los Angeles issued warnings for possible debris flows that took effect Saturday morning, with residents in Altadena around the Eaton Fire burn scar among those facing the highest risk.
The danger is amplified by already saturated hillsides from a Christmas-week storm that soaked the region for several days. Wildfires stripped vegetation that normally helps hold soil in place, leaving these areas particularly vulnerable to mudslides and debris flows during heavy rain events.
San Diego was especially hard hit earlier in the week, receiving over 2 inches of rain to start the new year—ranking among the 15 rainiest days on record for the city. The deluge flooded roads, stranded vehicles, and led to multiple water rescues as the San Diego River overflowed its banks.
Even the iconic 137th Rose Parade in Pasadena wasn't spared, with moderate to heavy rains drenching spectators who had gathered to watch the New Year's morning procession. Those holding spots for the parade endured 1.84 inches of rain before patches of sunshine finally broke through the gloomy skies.
A flash flood risk exists across pockets of northern and southern California, rated Level 2 out of 4 by the National Weather Service, with particular concern for mountain areas and the greater Los Angeles region. The potential for an atmospheric river to form could further enhance rainfall and increase the risk of widespread flash flooding.
Emergency management officials are urging residents in vulnerable areas to monitor local alerts closely and be prepared to evacuate if conditions worsen. Sandbag distribution sites have been set up throughout the region, and residents are advised to clear drains and gutters to help prevent localized flooding around their properties.
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