The first of two powerful storms has hit Southern California, unleashing heavy rain, gusty winds, and mountain snow. This weather event, characterized by atmospheric rivers, is set to impact various regions in the state. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the ongoing situation.

Storm Arrival and Impact

The storm entered Southern California late Wednesday night, intensifying throughout Thursday. Widespread rainfall was anticipated, leading to concerns about potential flooding. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a Flood Watch for the Southwestern part of the state, including the Inland Empire, predicting downpours in certain areas.

Weather Advisories and Alerts

Several weather advisories were issued by the NWS to keep the public informed:

• Flood Advisory: Majority of Los Angeles County, which expired at 10 a.m.
• Flood Watch: In effect from 6 a.m. Thursday to 10 a.m. Friday for parts of San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange, and San Diego counties. Cities like Idyllwild-Pine Cove, Garden Grove, Fontana, and others were included. The flood threat was expected to fall below the snow level, projected between 7,000 and 7,500 feet, with possible hourly rainfall totals ranging from half to three-quarters of an inch.

Arkstorm: A Potential Extreme Weather Event

Meteorologists are raising the alarm about a potential extreme weather event called Arkstorm or ‘Atmospheric River 1,000 year storm.’ While Californians typically associate major events with earthquakes, the possibility of a storm dumping up to 100 inches of rain on some parts of the state is being considered.

Winter Storm Warning and Snow Accumulation

A Winter Storm Warning was issued for the San Bernardino County mountains, including Big Bear Lake, Running Springs, and Wrightwood, from 4 a.m. Thursday to 6 a.m. Friday. The NWS predicted heavy snowfall with varying accumulation levels based on elevation. Travel was strongly discouraged, with the snow level expected to fluctuate between 7,000 and 7,500 feet.

Advisories for Wind and Surf Conditions

• Wind Advisory: Valleys in San Bernardino, Orange, and Riverside counties were under a Wind Advisory, with speeds between 15 and 25 mph and gusts up to 45 mph. The advisory was effective from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thursday in the Inland Empire and from 4 a.m. to noon Thursday in Orange County.
• High Surf Advisory: In effect from 2 a.m. Thursday to 6 a.m. Saturday for beach communities in Ventura, Orange, and Los Angeles counties, as well as the Malibu Coast.

Orange County Impacted

The first atmospheric river hit Southern California, affecting Orange County. The situation is expected to intensify with the arrival of the second storm.

Ongoing Weather Challenges

As Southern California grapples with the first of two powerful storms, residents are urged to stay informed and take necessary precautions. The combination of heavy rain, snow, and gusty winds poses significant challenges, requiring vigilance and adherence to advisory warnings. Stay tuned for further updates as the region navigates through this weather event.