A Massive Pineapple Express Storm Hits Southern California: Flash Floods, Landslide Threats, and High Winds
A powerful Pineapple Express storm, the second to hit Southern California in recent days, has stalled over the region, bringing torrential rain, near-hurricane-force wind gusts, and the potential for flash floods and landslides. The storm, named for its origin near Hawaii, is an atmospheric river storm that carries dense moisture from the Pacific and dumps it on land as heavy precipitation.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flood, winter storm, and high wind advisories for approximately 40 million people throughout California. California Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency in eight counties with a combined population of over 20 million people in response to the first atmospheric river storm that struck the coast last week.
The Los Angeles area, as well as other parts of southern California, could receive up to 8 inches (20 cm) of rain from this storm. The NWS forecasts that the threat of flash flooding will be centered in Southern California as the storm moves further into the interior of the state.
While there have been no reports of severe damage or casualties, three homes in Encino, Los Angeles, were damaged by debris, with no injuries reported. Authorities are warning residents to be prepared for dangerous conditions, particularly in the Hollywood Hills and the Santa Monica Mountains.
Flash Flood Warning Issued for San Bernardino County
The weather service has issued a flash flood warning for more than 2 million people in San Bernardino County. The area could experience up to 1.75 inches (4.4 cm) of rain during the morning commute.
The storm has resulted in power outages across the state, affecting approximately 530,000 homes and businesses. Over the weekend, up to 900,000 customers were without power. Downtown Los Angeles received 4 inches (10 cm) of rain in a single day, the most in two decades.
The NWS warns that additional rainfall will worsen already saturated conditions and increase the risk of life-threatening flash floods, urban flooding, and small-stream flooding.
In Santa Barbara, Mission Creek, which runs through the city, is nearing its banks due to 3 to 6 inches (8 to 15 cm) of rainfall in Central California over the weekend.
In Yuba City, a man lost his life when a large redwood tree fell on him. While the cause of death was not explicitly attributed to the weather, wind gusts of up to 58 miles (93 km) per hour were reported at the time.
Stay safe as extreme weather conditions continue to affect Southern California. Follow the guidelines and warnings issued by local authorities to ensure your well-being.