Atmospheric river: Evacuations ahead of 'life-threatening' California storm

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California Braces for Severe Weather Impact

Nearly 500,000 residents in California are grappling with power outages as forecasters predict a tumultuous weather event described as "one of the most dramatic in recent memory." The onslaught includes heavy rain and high winds affecting an area spanning from Santa Barbara to Los Angeles, raising concerns of "life-threatening" flooding until Tuesday.

Atmospheric River Sparks State of Emergency

The weather turmoil is attributed to an "atmospheric river" phenomenon, driven by airborne currents of dense moisture. Flood alerts cover about 94% of California's population, approximately 37 million residents. Responding to the impending crisis, Governor Gavin Newsom has declared a state of emergency in eight central and southern counties, enabling swift deployment of state resources for rescue and recovery efforts.

Governor Newsom's Urgent Warning

Governor Newsom issued a stark warning, emphasizing the severity of the storm: "California: this is a serious storm with dangerous and potentially life-threatening impacts." He urged residents to heed emergency orders and alerts from local officials to ensure their safety.

Ongoing Recovery Efforts from Previous Storm

This weather event follows a recent atmospheric river that inflicted record rainfall, gusty winds, and heavy snow in high elevations. The remnants of this earlier storm, which caused substantial damage and prompted evacuations, may exacerbate flooding and travel issues during the current weather crisis.

Atmospheric River Dynamics Explained

Atmospheric rivers, colloquially known as "Pineapple Express," involve the evaporation of water into the air, carried by wind currents resembling rivers in the sky. In California, this system brings warm subtropical moisture across the Pacific from near Hawaii.

Evacuations and Emergency Preparedness

Thousands of residents in southern and northern California were ordered to evacuate ahead of the storm's peak impact. Emergency responders, totaling over 8,500 in central and southern coastline areas, have been mobilized. Distribution of seven million sandbags aims to mitigate potential flooding risks.

Forecast: Continuous Rain and Varied Impacts

National Weather Service forecasters predict the storm could bring 24 to 36 hours or more of continuous rain, with the worst anticipated between Sunday and Tuesday. Rainfall rates may peak at an inch per hour, potentially causing urban flooding, mudslides, and flash floods requiring swift water rescues.

Widespread Impact on California

The storm's reach extends beyond heavy rainfall, with heavy mountain snow and damaging winds expected across the state. The Los Angeles River, in particular, is poised to become dangerously swollen. Earlier storms disrupted cable car services in the San Francisco Bay area and caused flooding in San Diego, prompting dramatic rescue efforts.

Historical Context and Cautionary Note

California faced a similar scenario last year, with over 20 fatalities and $4.6 billion in damages attributed to atmospheric river storms. The National Weather Service warns that this year's storm may mirror or surpass the previous devastation, underlining the urgent need for preparedness and caution.