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Emergency Declared as 'Very Dangerous' Christmas Storm Batters Southern California

Officials warn of life‑threatening flooding from a powerful atmospheric river.

Overview

  • Los Angeles County issued evacuation orders and warnings for more than 380 properties, focusing on burn‑scar neighborhoods in Pacific Palisades and Malibu.
  • Power outages affected roughly 100,000 to 125,000 customers statewide as downed trees, flooded streets and road closures multiplied.
  • At least two storm‑related deaths were reported by U.S. media as flooding, mudflows and debris slides spread across the region.
  • The National Weather Service maintained its highest excessive‑rainfall risk, citing flash‑flood and landslide danger, mountain snow and gusts approaching 130 km/h; a brief tornado warning was later withdrawn.
  • Governor Gavin Newsom declared a state of emergency for multiple counties, and Los Angeles activated local measures including shelters and millions of pre‑positioned sandbags.