US: Life-threatening storm approaches California, posing severe flooding and mudslide threat

A powerful 'atmospheric river' storm system isexpected to bringlife-threatening and damaging flooding, wind, snow and waves to California.Flood watches are issued from Saturday nightto Tuesday (Feb 6) in central and southern California due to the upcoming heavy rain, raising concerns about urban flooding.

Extensive rainfall estimates

Forecasts suggest widespread rainfall ranging from threeto sixinches, with potential spikes of sixto 12 inches in south and southwest-facing foothills and mountains. Peak intensity is expected on Sunday and Monday, with rates possibly reaching oneinch per hour during the storm's zenith. The prolonged heavy rainfall, spanning three to six hours, heightens the threat of widespread freeway flooding, particularly in densely populated areas.

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Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass issued a stern advisory, urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel, especially on the anticipated peak day, Sunday. The city stands ready with a fully staffed response team and bolstered air resources. The National Weather Service said even conservative rainfall estimates hold potential for causing damaging flooding.

Flash flooding alert

Santa Barbara County has also received evacuation orders due to an elevated risk of flash flooding, as reported by ABC News.Door-to-door evacuations in Santa Barbara are underway as Sheriff Barbara County Sheriff Bill Brown underscores the storm's historic magnitude, anticipating significant rock and mudslide activity on mountain and canyon roadways.

The Ventura County Sheriff's Office has also mandated evacuations due to anticipated rain impacts. Formidable winds, predicted at 60-80 mph, bring threats of downed trees and widespread power outages. A high surf advisory coincides with waves potentially surging to 20 feet, escalating the risk of ocean-related incidents and rip currents.

In tandem with coastal threats, winter storm warnings have been issued for the Sierra Nevada mountains, forecasting heavy snowfall from Saturday evening to Tuesday. Accumulations of two to fourfeet, reaching fiveto six feet at higher elevations, pose travel disruptions and avalanche risks, potentially prompting road closures.

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The storm is set to intensify Saturday evening, with peak rain and snowfall extending into Sunday morning. As Los Angeles hosts the Grammy Awards on Sunday afternoon, the storm's zenith may trigger flash flooding and wind-related disruptions. By Monday morning, the storm focus shifts to San Diego, bringing persistent rain throughout the day with a gradual tapering in intensity.

(With inputs from agencies)