Winter Storm Poses Major Threats to Californian Homes and Holiday Travel

As California braces for severe weather, officials strongly advise against holiday travel. Intense winter storms are unleashing continuous rain, fierce winds, and heavy snowfall across the state.

These storms, which began arriving on Tuesday night, are set to escalate leading up to Christmas Eve. The National Weather Service has cautioned that millions traveling through California may encounter perilous—and possibly impassable—conditions due to the formation of several atmospheric rivers.

Atmospheric rivers, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, are narrow corridors of concentrated water vapor originating over oceans in the tropics. These rivers often head towards California, where they precipitate as rain and snow.

Meteorologist Ariel Cohen from the National Weather Service warned travelers to rethink their Christmas journey plans, emphasizing the serious potential for hazardous conditions during the period.

In Los Angeles County, Cohen reported wind speeds surpassing 60 mph, which uprooted trees and downed power lines. Residents are urged to heed the warnings seriously as rain will increasingly endanger lives over the holiday weekend.

For Southern California, forecasters predict the possibility of the wettest Christmas in recent memory, heightening the risk of flash floods, landslides, and debris slides. Authorities in Los Angeles County are advising over 380 at-risk households to evacuate.

Malibu's Claire Hamano expressed her concerns to CBS about landslides affecting her area, particularly along the Pacific Coast Highway, and was actively preparing by gathering sandbags.

Typically, Southern California receives only half to one inch of rain this season, but current forecasts anticipate up to 4 to 8 inches in many locales, with the potential for even higher amounts in the mountains. Winds may reach 80 mph along portions of the central coast.

Power outages, fallen trees, road closures, and flight delays are anticipated due to these storms.

Mandatory Evacuations Announced for Southern California

Evacuation alerts have been issued for certain regions in Los Angeles, with particular attention to burn scars from past wildfires.

Despite warnings, some residents of these areas remain at home, a decision Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell urges them to reconsider due to the significant dangers posed by the storm.

To mitigate the impact, barrier systems like K-rails have been set up in key locations to intercept debris flows. Sandbags are also being distributed for homeowners to shield their properties, as explained by Kathryn Barger, a supervisor in the county.

Local and state agencies are preparing to address any emergencies, with resources and first-response teams on alert across affected counties, and the California National Guard is prepared to assist.

Flood Warnings Issued for Northern California

In Northern California, flood watches and high wind advisories have been placed across much of the Sacramento Valley and the San Francisco Bay Area, effective through Friday. The Sierra Nevada is expected to endure severe snow conditions and fierce gusts, making travel via mountain passes exceptionally hazardous.

There is also the potential for severe storms and tornadoes along the northern coastline.

Heavy rainfall has already resulted in water rescues and at least one fatality in Northern California. In response, Shasta County's Sheriff declared a state of emergency, allowing further resources for disaster management and search operations.